Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects around 39,000 Australians, with each case presenting unique challenges in onset, symptoms, and progression. A new clinical consensus statement—the first of its kind in Australia and New Zealand—has been published to provide healthcare professionals, including GPs, with up-to-date recommendations for managing MS in a rapidly evolving treatment landscape.
The Need for Updated Clinical Guidance
Historically, MS management in Australia relied on international guidelines, with the last update by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) occurring in 2015. Given the introduction of new disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and evolving evidence in the field, a group of experts, including neurologists, general practitioners, allied health professionals, and MS support organizations, collaborated to develop recommendations tailored to local clinical practice.
The Monash University-led statement, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, provides much-needed clarity on available therapies and treatment strategies that improve patient outcomes while ensuring safety and efficacy.
Key Highlights for GPs
- Early Diagnosis and Pre-Assessment: The guidelines emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and assessment to optimize patient outcomes. General practitioners play a vital role in recognizing early symptoms, referring patients to specialists, and ensuring timely intervention.
- Individualized Treatment Planning: Given the diverse nature of MS progression, treatment must be personalized. The recommendations outline how different DMTs can be used to reduce relapses and slow disease progression.
- Managing Treatment Risks: Some DMTs suppress the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. The consensus guidelines provide strategies for risk mitigation, including vaccination protocols, infection screening, and ongoing monitoring.
- Addressing Acute MS Relapses: General practitioners are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing relapses. The guidelines outline evidence-based approaches to managing acute episodes, including corticosteroid treatment and rehabilitation options.
- Lifestyle and Supportive Care: Beyond pharmacological treatments, the statement includes recommendations on general lifestyle measures, mental health support, and rehabilitation therapies such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
- Special Considerations: The guidelines provide specific advice on managing MS in pregnancy, postpartum care, breastfeeding, and handling infections in immunosuppressed patients.
Why This Matters for GPs
MS management requires a multidisciplinary approach, and general practitioners are integral to ensuring continuity of care. With disease-modifying therapies becoming more effective and better tolerated, it is crucial that GPs remain informed about the latest treatment options and referral pathways.
MS Australia CEO Rohan Greenland emphasized that these new guidelines will serve as an invaluable resource for generalist clinicians navigating this complex field. As frontline healthcare providers, GPs can use these recommendations to guide discussions with patients, make informed treatment decisions, and ensure individuals with MS receive holistic, patient-centered care.
Next Steps for GPs
- Stay updated with CPD courses on HealthcareLink to enhance your MS management skills.
- Familiarize yourself with the full consensus statement to stay up to date with current best practices.
- Engage in continued professional development opportunities related to MS management.
- Strengthen collaboration with neurologists and allied health teams to provide comprehensive support for MS patients.
- Encourage MS patients to discuss treatment options and lifestyle modifications that can improve their quality of life.
For more information and access to the full recommendations, visit MS Australia’s website or consult the Medical Journal of Australia’s publication on the new MS consensus statement.
Resource:
First Aus-NZ clinical guidance developed for people living with multiple sclerosis | Monash University
