A new center of excellence

A new center of excellence

The University of Florida College of Medicine is among 10 institutions to be named a Center of Excellence by the Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at raising awareness of the neurological disorder Charcot-Marie-Tooth and other inherited neuropathies. The foundation said the designations recognize institutions that “demonstrate strengths in providing excellence in clinical care and research for this patient community.” The foundation will collaborate with the designated centers to expand their roles as hubs for patient care, community engagement, research and education for these diseases. Afflicting about 1 in 2,500 people in the United States, Charcot-Marie-Tooth is one of the most common inherited neurological disorders. It affects peripheral nerves and can cause weakness of the foot and lower leg muscles, often rendering patients unable to walk. “We are honored to have these premier centers and their leading experts in partnership with us to improve the future for people with inherited neuropathies,” said Allison Moore, CEO and founder of the foundation. — Michelle Koidin Jaffee