b'FindingYour Care DEFINITION: Access to Care - The ability to nd, afford, and make use of quality healthcare services in a timely manner to achieve the best health outcomes.One of the major benets of connecting with the MS community is it can increase your access to healthcare. How so? By tapping into the shared knowledge of the community, you can learn about resources that are available to you. Where will you nd helpful tips for accessing care? See the chart below: LocationResource Local support groups Personal recommendations for doctors, therapists,and other providers with experience in MS.Online MS groupsRecommendations for organizations, programs, and services that have assisted others in the larger community.MS organizationsMS organizations may provide direct assistance with accessing care, from nancial assistance to transportation. They may also help you navigate insurance, government agencies, and other sources of assistance. Copay assistance funds These nonprots exist to help defray the cost of copays for necessary medications. Pharmaceutical supportDrug manufacturer support programs can assistserviceswith copays, referrals, and treatment questions. These are just a few of the many ways that the MS community can help you access resources.MS Focus Provides Access to CareHere are a few of the many programs from MS Focus: the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation that are focused on access to care:Healthcare Assistance Grantassists uninsured individuals with the cost of visiting their MS specialist. The grant, which can pay for one visit and one follow-up, is designed to assist those already diagnosed with MS who may need a visit to their treating physician to renew a prescription or handle other important needs. Homecare Assistance Grantassists individuals in accessing in-home services in their community. Should community services not be available, the program may pay for short-term homecare, respite care, or rehabilitative therapy services.Transportation Assistance Grantensures all people with MS have the transportation necessary to get the best medical care. The program provides funding for reasonable paratransit fees or minor auto repair. The program can also provide funding for transportation to and from appointments for MS care, limited to neurologist visits and infusion centers, at no cost to the person with MS. 11'