Development of the accredited duchenne centers program, a global program to achieve uniform and up-to-date care for all people living with duchenne muscular dystrophy

Abstract

Abstract The Accredited Duchenne Centers (ADC) Program is a global program initiated by the World Duchenne Organization (WDO). The aim of the ADC Program is to achieve global, uniform and up-to-date care for all people living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) that are in line with the latest international care considerations and care guidelines. This will be realized by accrediting Duchenne care centers for children and/or adults that provide comprehensive care according to the latest care considerations, and supporting care centers that do not yet meet these criteria for accreditation, to improve care provided to DMD patients. The accreditation process consists of five stages ranging from application to maintenance of accreditation by continuous education. The accreditation criteria and procedures were developed in close collaboration with an international Advisory Board. This paper describes the development and content of the ADC Program. The ADC Program is the first global accreditation program for both children and adults with DMD. The results of the program may contribute to optimal implementation of the latest research insights and optimum care for all people living with DMD and their families.

Keywords

• Accredited duchenne centers (ADC) program
• Duchenne muscular dystrophy
• Certification
• Global
• Care considerations
• Consensus guidelines