Smederevo Multiple Sclerosis Patients Still Need to Travel to Belgrade for Therapy

Patients in Smederevo, Serbia, suffering from multiple sclerosis continue to face significant hurdles in accessing vital treatments, as they are still required to travel to Belgrade for high-efficacy therapy. The "MS Platform Smederevo" association marked World Multiple Sclerosis Day by highlighting this persistent problem, which places a considerable physical and mental burden on individuals already battling the debilitating effects of the disease.

While the association, with its 65 active members, acknowledges progress in regular check-ups, timely MRI scans, and stable medication distribution within Smederevo, the lack of advanced therapy locally remains a critical issue. The healthcare center in Smederevo reportedly lacks sufficient space for patients undergoing treatments like ocrelizumab, specialized refrigerators for medication storage, and adequate medical personnel. This situation is compounded by the recent departure of another neurologist from the Smederevo hospital to Belgrade, further straining neurological services.

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A large number of our members receive modern therapies today, but we are still forced to travel to Belgrade for them. For a person with multiple sclerosis, who fights disability, severe mobility, and chronic fatigue every day, every journey represents a huge physical and mental effort.

Other health centers in Serbia, such as in Ćuprija, have the necessary technical conditions to administer these therapies, and many others have begun offering them. "MS Platform Smederevo" is appealing to relevant institutions for urgent technical and staffing support to equip the Smederevo hospital. Despite these health challenges, the association fosters a strong sense of community, organizing creative workshops and donating their crafts to local schools and kindergartens, demonstrating a commitment to being an active part of society.

The association also presented traditional acknowledgments to individuals and organizations for their empathy and solidarity, including Nemanja Ivošević, the Music School "Kosta Manojlović," and humanitarian Marija Petrović. The "MS Ambassador" award was given to the rock band "NEED" for raising awareness through art. The event concluded with the release of 50 orange balloons, symbolizing hope and the collective fight against the disease.

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We are working on it, the procedures are underway, and the police report is almost finished.