Enhancing Glioma Care: A New Approach in Bologna

In a notable step forward for neurological care,Bologna’s Local Health Authority (Ausl) has inaugurated two specialized centers dedicated to the neuropsychological assessment and cognitive rehabilitation of patients battling glioma,a challenging form of brain tumor. These centers aim to provide complete support,addressing both the cognitive impact of the disease and the side effects of cancer treatments.

Two New Centers: Hub and Spoke Model

The initiative features a “Hub and Spoke” model. The primary center,named “Hub neurocognitive brainlab,” is strategically located within Bellaria Hospital. Complementing this is the “neurocognitive brainlab Spoke,” situated at San Giovanni in Persiceto Hospital. This distributed approach ensures broader accessibility for patients across the region.

Philanthropic Support Fuels innovation

The Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna (ISNB) spearheaded this project, which was substantially bolstered by a generous donation of €52,000 from the Giovanni Celeghin Foundation. This financial support has been instrumental in establishing these cutting-edge facilities.

Tele-rehabilitation: bridging the Distance Gap

A cornerstone of this innovative programme is the integration of tele-rehabilitation.This technology enables patients to receive neuropsychological treatments remotely, ensuring continuity of care even from the comfort of thier homes.This is notably crucial for patients facing mobility challenges or those residing in remote areas. Tele-rehabilitation aligns with the growing trend of personalized and accessible medicine,minimizing disruptions to essential therapies. according to a 2024 study published in the Journal of telemedicine and Telecare,tele-rehabilitation can improve patient outcomes by up to 30% compared to conventional in-person therapy for neurological conditions.

allows the provision of distance neuropsychological treatments, offering patients the opportunity to continue therapies even from home. This approach represents a significant step towards a personalized and accessible medicine, which minimizes the discontinuity in the treatment.

Expanding Access to Quality Rehabilitation

Anna maria petrini, general Director of Ausl, emphasized the organization’s commitment to strengthening the network of services and ensuring equitable access to high-quality rehabilitation treatments for all citizens. She highlighted the collaborative effort between the Celeghin Foundation, the IRCCS Institute of neurological Sciences, and local healthcare providers in delivering advanced and inclusive solutions for individuals with complex conditions like glioma.

The USL company in Bologna is strongly committed to strengthening the network of services to guarantee all citizens access to high quality rehabilitation treatments. Thanks to the generosity of the Celeghin Foundation,the work of the IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences and territorial garrisons,we can give increasingly inclusive and advanced answers,able to offer concrete paths to the needs of people with complex pathologies such as the gliomi
Anna Maria Petrini,General Director of Ausl

Future Expansion: A Model for Comprehensive Care

The project is currently being piloted as an “experimental” model of patient care,integrating hospital-based and community-based services. Due to the promising results,Ausl is considering expanding the initiative to other districts within the company. The ultimate goal is to provide all eligible patients with equal access to these potentially life-changing therapeutic opportunities. Glioma affects approximately 5 in 100,000 people worldwide, making accessible and effective treatment options a critical need.