Dumfriesshire MSP’s Elaine Murray (Labour) and Dr Aileen McLeodd (Snp) have pledged to help ensure that all people living with MS in Scotland have better access to treatments, regardless of where they live.
This comes as the MS Society revealed that people with MS often face significant barriers in accessing licensed treatments, the information to decide what is right for them and the specialists who can help.
During MS Week (28 April – 4 May) the MS Society launched its new campaign Treat Me Right. The charity’s campaign calls on decision-makers and the MS community to tackle the barriers in the way of people getting the right treatment at the right time.
Backing the campaign Elaine said, “I’m pleased to be able to show my support for this important campaign. MS affects many of my constituents with latest data showing 15 people in our region diagnosed with the disease in 2012. It is unacceptable that licensed treatments that could help people with the condition should be out of reach. I will continue to work with my constituents, fellow MSPs and organisations to drive this campaign forward.”
Backing the campaign Aileen said:
“I’m pleased to be able to show my support for this important campaign. MS affects many of my constituents and I will continue to work with my constituents, fellow MSPs and organisations to drive this campaign forward.”
Stewart Long, Interim Director for the MS Society in Scotland said:
“There are over 11,000 people living with MS in Scotland and it is essential they people living with the condition can access the right treatments, services and support. Unfortunately, many people are in the dark about or unable to access medicines that could potentially help manage their condition. This needs to change. We have been delighted by the support we have received from MSPs for our Treat Me Right campaign. By working together we can make that change happen”.
