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17 Whileneurologists andnurses areverygoodat givingadvice about different treatment options formultiple sclerosis (MS), it’smainlyup to the newly-diagnosedperson todecidewhichone to start.That’s a big call for someone tomakewhen they’ve just received life-changingnews. It can take several months to identify the best treatment and during that time, the person’s relapses are often not well managed. A clinical study at the University of Otago, Wellington, co-funded by the Neurological Foundation and carried out by Dr Katharina Robichon, has looked at the biology behind why medications work for some people and not for others. Her work is vital in helping develop amore scientifically- guidedway tomake decisions about treatment, relieving pressure on people at a difficult time. Down the track, this will help tackle health inequities while improving people’s quality of life. It will bring economic benefits, too, significantly reducing the financial burden on public health services by making sure people are on the right medications at the right time. “Having direct contact with the study participants made me truly value their time and contribution. It was great to see all the positive feedback and encouragement from the participants, the MS Society of Wellington and the neurology team, about my work and how important it is.” MS researcher Dr Katharina Robichon Empowering people on their treatment journey