Objective measurement in routine care of people with Parkinson’s disease improves outcomes

Abstract

It is common in medicine to titrate therapy according to target ranges of objectively measured parameters. Objective measurement of motor function is available for Parkinson’s Disease (PD), making it possible to optimise therapy and clinical outcomes. In this study, an accelerometry based measurement and predefined target ranges were used to assess motor function in a Northern Tasmania PD cohort managed by a Movement Disorder clinic. Approximately 40% (n = 103) of the total PD population participated in this study and motor scores were within target in 22%. In the 78% above target, changes in oral therapy were recommended in 74%, Advanced Therapy in 12% and treatment was contraindicated in 9..