NICE DECLARATION

Multiple Sclerosis is a prominent disease of the central nervous system usually leading to early disablement in young adults, and having implications for severe burden. At least 350,000 persons in Europe have the disease.
In recent years scientific advances in diagnosis and improvements in treatment have dramatically increased the knowledge and interest in Multiple Sclerosis. All persons with MS must have the option to receive treatments that may positively change their outlook on life, and improve their social and economic status.
It is within the reach of governments, health authorities, health care communities, industry and MS Societies to provide conditions that could strongly improve diagnosis, treatment, care and welfare of persons with MS.

Basic goals
Prevention and reduction of disablement and socio-economic loss. Full maintenance of daily life activities and social participation.

Methods
Provide persons with MS with full information and facilities for :

Objectives for the next 5 years (quintennium)
1. Improve authorities' awareness of

• medical impact.
• socio-economic impact.
• new management possibilities.

2. Improve patients' awareness of the importance of

• early diagnosis.
• continuous follow-up.

3. Organize a network of MS centers and provide accessibility of optimal care for all persons with MS.

4. Develop and implement a standardized European database including

• standardized decision-oriented medical records.
• indicators for performance outcome monitoring and quality control in individual persons with MS.

5. Improve co-operation between independent patient organisations, government, health care communities and industry.

6. Improve recruitment, competence and dedication of MS clinicians and researchers.

The participants of the Nice Symposium charge the European Charcot Foundation to take these goals as its first priority and responsibility.