The Parkinson Society of Southern Alberta and the Movement Disorder Program
(University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Center, Department of Clinical Neurosciences) are pleased to announce the PD Helpline.
It is an information and referral phone line for people living with Parkinson’s and Parkinson’s + (Multiple Systems Atrophy,
Progressive Supranucleur Palsy, etc.) conditions.
It is a free, confidential and simple way for individuals and families to get the help they need to manage the challenges of their
diagnosis. This service was created to improve access to medical advice and supports for everyday living.
When you phone the Helpline the information and referral associate will help you with accessing community resources you may need,
with information on all aspects of Parkinson and put you in touch with the resources at the Parkinson Society of Southern Alberta or
the specialized care at the Movement Disorder Program (if you are a patient).
We serve Central and Southern Alberta from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am till 4:00 pm (closed on weekends and stat holidays).
The PD Helpline was made possible by a grant from Alberta Culture and Community Spirit.
1-877-243-9992 (toll free in Alberta)
PD HelpLine FAQ
Q. Who will answer my call?
Q. I’ve been calling Parkinson Society of Southern Alberta for help with my
Parkinson’s for years. What number do I use now?
Q. I’m not sure if I need an appointment with my neurologist, will the person
speaking to me on the Helpline be able to ask the neurologist for me?
Q. If I’m not a patient of the Movement Disorders Program can you still help me?
Q. What will happen if I need more support then the Helpline?
Q. What will happen if I am calling from a rural community in Alberta?
The Information and Referral Associate has training in both communication and Parkinson’s. They understand the complexities of the
condition and its treatment. Their experience will help you know what to do next.
Thank you for all the years you’ve used our services. Switching to the Helpline phone number will actually speed up the response
to your call. The objective of the Helpline is to answer your call immediately.
The Helpline is situated at the office of PSSA. We cannot speak to your neurologist. However, we have the advantage of communicating
with the nurses at the Movement Disorders Program in urgent cases if you are a patient there. They will receive the information they
need to help you from the Helpline. This system was designed so that you get the help you need faster. With the help of the
specialists at the Movement Disorders Program we have guidelines in order to help you decide whether or not seeing your doctor is a
priority.
The Helpline Associate can help you determine what choices you have to get the help you need. It can be confusing trying to
determine the right place to go. The Helpline is there to help
The Helpline can forward your call to a client services coordinator in your area who can meet with you to go through all of the
challenges you are facing.
We welcome all calls and we will do our best to get the resources that you need to you.