Information and Referral Center

The American Parkinson's Disease  Association (APDA) Information and Referral (I & R) Center is a grassroots organization committed to providing services, educational programs and activities for people with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers. Dr. John M. Bertoni, Movement Disorder Specialist, is the Medical Director. Lisa A. Brovold, Education Coordinator manages the educational and administrative responsibilities of the center. While the Center is housed at Creighton University, it provides services to all medical education institutions and health facilities across Nebraska.

The I & R Center has a five-fold purpose:

• Provides information and resources to the Parkinson's community.
• Offers referrals for services such as medical professionals, physical therapists, home health care, respite and exercise programs to name a few.
• Coordinates and assists with Parkinson's support groups in Nebraska. There are currently 20 support groups in various cities in Nebraska.
• Raises awareness in regards to Parkinson's Disease throughout Nebraska. April is Parkinson's Awareness Month and several special
  events take place to raise awareness about the disease.
• Conducts and organizes educational programs to train professionals as well as patients, caregivers, family and friends. An Annual Parkinson's Disease Symposium is held at least once a year. The coordinator also organizes teleconferences that are broadcast to all support group sites across Nebraska. The Parkinson's community can interact with the speaker live, allowing them to get current information about the disease without having to travel long distances.

The I & R Center works collaboratively with the Nebraska Chapter of the APDA. While the center is responsible for providing information and education to the Parkinson's community, the Nebraska Chapter's primary focus is to raise monetary support and public awareness of Parkinson's disease throughout Nebraska. The Chapter consists of executive officers and a Board. You may review the Chapter webpage for more information.