Putting Patients With Movement Disorders in the Driver’s Seat for Care: Cheryl Kyinn, PA-C

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"It is an open discussion between clinical provider and patient, and I tell them we're trying to optimize your quality of life, and the decision-making process is 2-fold. I provide information, and then we, together, pick what's best for your life, what fits into your lifestyle, with the ultimate goal of improving quality of life."

Shared decision-making is considered by clinicians as a cornerstone of effective care, especially in the field of movement disorders. Patients with conditions such as Parkinson disease (PD) may often face complex treatment options that carry varying risks, benefits, and impacts on their daily life. By engaging patients in open discussions about their goals, preferences, and values, clinicians can provide guidance and respect the patient’s autonomy at the same time. This collaborative approach not only can improve patient satisfaction but can also enhance adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. In practice, this might mean that clinicians offer their expertise on therapies, and their patients remain in the “driver’s seat,” making informed choices that align with their individual lifestyles and priorities.

Closely tied to shared decision-making is the importance of early intervention for patients with movement disorders. Introducing therapies at the appropriate stage, particularly advanced options such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) or subcutaneous infusion pump, can help manage symptoms more effectively, maintain independence, and improve overall quality of life. Delaying treatment out of hesitation or uncertainty can limit potential benefits, whereas proactive care could empower patients to maintain control over their daily functioning. By educating patients about available options and demonstrating their practical use, clinicians can optimize long-term outcomes and ensure that interventions align with their patients’ goals.

Movement disorder expert Cheryl Kyinn, PA-C, illustrated these principles when she discussed managing OFF episodes in PD with on-demand therapies at 4th Annual Advanced Therapeutics in Movement and Related Disorders (ATMRD) Congress, held by the PMD Alliance from June 27-30, 2025. During the congress, Kyinn, a physician assistant specializing in PD in Orange County, California, spoke with NeurologyLive^® about her patient-centered approach. She emphasized how shared decision-making and early intervention are critical to optimizing quality of life and highlighted the value of practical conferences like ATMRD. Kyinn also encouraged advanced practice providers to engage with educational resources that support their clinical expertise and patient care.

Click here for more coverage of ATMRD 2025.

REFERENCES
1. Kyinn, C. Conquering Off Episodes With On-Demand Therapies. Presented at: ATMRD; June 27-30, 2025; Washington, DC.