Note: please note that this issue overview should (a) contain links to the issue briefs on this topic that are focused either the local, state, national, or global level, and (b) be neutrally presented, based on facts, and include footnotes for each of the items.  See the Research Guide and Information Sources to assist you. 

Goal Statement

•  To provide information and access to health services for ALS patients,  their families, and health care providers.  

Policy Options / Program Models   specific policies or program models, grouped by type, that are profiled 

• Family support programs 

Issue Briefsissue briefs on this topic at the local, state, national, global level

• Access to Health Services for ALS Patients - USA

• Access to Health Services for ALS Patients - Kansas

• Access to Health Services for ALS Patients - Topeka, KS

Glossary of Terms   key words or phrases that the layperson needs to know to understand this issue 

• Detailed description of ALS

• Glossary of terms for ALS- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, A.K.A Lou Gehrig's Disease

• ALS effects the motor neurons, or nerve cells.  ALS damages the ability of these cells to carry messages from the brain to the muscles, and as the muscles are used less and less, they grow weaker and loose bulk.  Eventually patients with ALS become paralyzed, even though sight, hearing and thinking are unaffected.