Certification Program Expands Access to Movement Disorder Care

HENDERSON, Nev., Sept. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of Movement Disorder Advanced Practice Providers (AMDAPP^®), is pleased to share significant progress in the certification of Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) specializing in movement disorders. This advancement addresses the growing need for specialized care in this field.

The recent certification of 17 additional APPs in August brings the total number of certified professionals to 55 since the program's launch in January 2025. This certification, known as CMRD^® (Certification of Movement Related Disorders), acknowledges the experience and expertise of these APPs in delivering high-quality, evidence-based care to patients with movement disorders.

The rise in certified APPs is particularly important given the increasing prevalence of Parkinson's Disease, the fastest-growing neurological disease worldwide. In the United States alone, over 90,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. With only 660 movement disorder neurologists in the country, access to specialized care is limited, leading to long wait times for patients. APPs are playing a crucial role in bridging this gap by working alongside movement disorder neurologists to provide comprehensive care to a greater number of patients.

"Advanced Practice Providers are integral to the multidisciplinary teams at movement disorder clinics across the country. By expanding the number of certified APPs, we are directly addressing the growing need for specialized care and improving outcomes for individuals affected by these conditions," said Kelly Papesh, Executive Director, AMDAPP^®. "The CMRD^® certification is a testament to the expertise and dedication of these APPs in providing comprehensive and compassionate care."

The CMRD^® Certification will improve the following:

Increased Access to Care: Certified APPs enhance access to specialized care for patients with movement disorders.

• Multidisciplinary Team Integration: APPs are integral members of multidisciplinary teams in movement disorder clinics nationwide.
• Recognition of Expertise: The CMRD^® certification validates the skills and knowledge of APPs in providing evidence-based care.

The role of APPs is especially critical because patients with movement disorders are often initially treated by primary care providers. These providers may already be managing other complex medical issues and may lack the time and specialized knowledge required to address the complexities of movement disorders effectively. By expanding the number of certified APPs, the Association of Movement Disorder Advanced Practice Providers aims to improve the overall quality of care and support for individuals living with these conditions.

To learn more about the Association of Movement Disorder Advanced Practice Providers and the Certification of Movement Related Disorders, please visit AMDAPP's Certification Homepage . Here, you can find detailed information about the certification process, resources for patients and providers, and ways to get involved in supporting the organization's mission.

AMDAPP is a non-profit, professional organization that supports, educates, and empowers APP's to thrive and deliver high quality exceptional care to those living with movement disorders. https://www.amdapp.org/member-benefits">Become a member today! 

Media Contact
Erin Zinn
AMDAPP Deputy Director
[email protected]

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SOURCE Association of Movement Disorder Advanced Practice Providers