Activities of the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform

Abstract

Background: The European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP) is an umbrella organization for national multiple sclerosis (MS) patients' associations in 34 European countries. Its focus is to improve the quality of life (QoL) of individuals with MS and inform society about the challenges of living with this chronic and debilitating disease. Summary: The EMSP, which is comprised of 39 MS societies across Europe, represents the interests of more than 600,000 individuals with MS and another 1.5 million persons affected by the disease, including family and caregivers. The organization works to achieve high quality, equitable treatment and support for persons with MS throughout Europe, as reflected in its main activities and projects. These include: the European Code of Good Practice in MS; a European MS register (EUReMS); a MS Barometer to assess QoL; the MS Nurse PROfessional curriculum to provide standards for MS nurse training; a photographic exhibition entitled Under Pressure; the Believe and Achieve project which focuses on employment for young people with MS; and collaboration in World MS Day, an international MS awareness day. Key Messages: The activities and projects of the EMSP are geared towards making a difference in the lives of individuals with MS in Europe and their wider support networks, including physicians, neurologists, nurses and carers.