A primary goal of our chapters is to work closely with providers in their local communities to make sure all people living with ALS receive the health care and support services they need and deserve.

The ALS Association Certified Treatment Centers of Excellence

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Since 1998, our nationwide network of Certified Treatment Centers of ExcellenceSM has provided evidence-based, multidisciplinary ALS care and services in a supportive atmosphere emphasizing hope and quality of life.

The ALS Association Certified Treatment Center of Excellence Program designs, implements and monitors a national standard of best-practice care in the management of ALS.

Certifications are based on established requirements of the program, professionals’ skill sets, people living with ALS served, active involvement in ALS-related research, relationships with local Chapters and access to care.

To become certified as a Certified Treatment Center of Excellence, each clinic must:

• Meet The ALS Association's clinical care and treatment standards, based on AAN Practice Parameters
• Participate in ALS-related research
• Successfully complete a comprehensive site review

The ALS Association Recognized Treatment Centers

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The ALS Association Recognized Treatment Centers have the same high-quality approach to multidisciplinary care as The ALS Association Certified Treatment Centers of Excellence; however, they may not offer onsite research or opportunities to participate in clinical trials.

Affiliates and other models of care

It’s important to note that other models of care are necessary to meet the needs of all people living with ALS in the U.S. These models of care include, but aren’t limited to, neurology group practices and solo practitioners across the country that provide knowledgeable and compassionate care.

Many of these providers work closely with our local chapters to help reach people living with ALS, regardless of where they live. The chapters may provide educational and other support to these practitioners and their patients in their local community. However, the following models of care aren’t an official part of The ALS Association Certified Center Program.

ALS Clinics
There are ALS clinics located across the country that provide treatment and care based on a multidisciplinary model. These clinics may be affiliated with and/or supported by The ALS Association, a private foundation, a university medical system, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or another nonprofit organization. Some clinics may offer opportunities for people living with ALS to participate in research.

VA Clinics
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) officially recognizes ALS as a presumptive service-connected disease, increasing access to care, services and support for veterans living with the disease. The VA has a network of facilities throughout the nation and some locations provide specialized services for patients with neuromuscular diseases and ALS.

Large Group and Solo Practices
Neurologists diagnose and care for people with neurological illnesses, and some complete additional training and focus their practice on caring for people with neuromuscular diseases. Psychiatrists or primary care physicians may also work closely with people living with ALS.

People living with ALS who don’t live near a Certified Treatment Center of Excellence or a Recognized Treatment Center may receive high-quality care from a private practice physician or group practice.