Members of the then-called Movement Disorder Society — the largest international organization representing movement disorder specialists — voted for a new name earlier this year. The professional group became the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society in September.
“The new name really recognizes the significance of Parkinson’s disease care and research within the field of movement disorders as well as the activities of the society,” said Matthew Stern, MD, president of the Society and Parker Family Professor of Neurology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine.
Members of the society voted at its annual congress in Sydney, Australia, in June and the name change officially took effect on September 3.
A movement disorder specialist is a neurologist with additional training in movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. Movement disorder specialists complete residency training in neurology and then a fellowship in movement disorders. Their background provides in-depth knowledge of Parkinson's, its symptoms and available treatments.
The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society will launch a new journal in the near future, too. Movement Disorders – Clinical Practice will publish peer-reviewed articles that may be of interest to practicing neurologists and other clinicians. The addition of this resource supports the Society’s mission of disseminating knowledge about Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders.
Stern also pointed out that the Society has a membership and educational materials for allied care professionals such as physical therapists and nurses. “That’s another important reason for the name change,” Stern said. “Many of our constituents are involved primarily in the care of Parkinson’s patients.”
