An organization whose primary mission relates to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patient advocacy, education, or direct support programs to address patient specific needs. These organizations may peripherally participate in other activities like legislative advocacy, but patient support is their focus. Programs that help individuals navigate through the maze of the health care system. Personal health care advocates are trained health care workers, often nurses, or volunteers familiar with the health care system who work independently of any health care institution.

A professional medical care organization which provides primary care or specialty care to prevent, diagnose, or treat Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Routine health care provided by neurologists, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists, internists, family medicine specialists, nurse practitioners, physicians’ assistants or other health care providers who serve as the first point of contact with the health care system. Services focus on the prevention and early detection of health problems through regular physical examinations and other similar procedures as well as therapeutic services.