FirstHealth Introduces Neuro Nurse Navigator to Support Patients and Families

PINEHURST, N.C. - FirstHealth of the Carolinas is expanding support for patients and families navigating neurological conditions with the addition of a Neuro Nurse Navigator, a new role designed to connect patients with resources, education and emerging treatment options.

Registered nurse Marjorie Adas brings more than 30 years of nursing experience to the role, including 20 years caring for patients in the medical-neurological intensive care unit at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.

Adas' passion for neurological care began even earlier during her 10 years as a home care nurse where she worked closely with patients and families adjusting to life-changing neurological conditions, including stroke and Alzheimer's disease.

"I saw how quickly life can change for patients and their families and how overwhelming that journey can be," Adas said. "There are so many questions, appointments and resources to navigate. I want patients and caregivers to know they don't have to figure it all out on their own."

Helping Patients Navigate Neurological Care

As FirstHealth's Neuro Nurse Navigator, Adas serves as a resource for patients and families, helping connect them with services available within FirstHealth and throughout the community. She also works closely with providers and other members of the care team to help patients understand what comes next in their care.

For Adas, supporting caregivers is an important part of that work.

"When someone experiences a significant change in brain health, it affects the entire family," she said. "I want caregivers to feel informed and empowered to care for their loved ones while also knowing where they can turn for help."

Expanding Treatment Options for Alzheimer's Disease

The new role comes at a time when treatment options for neurological conditions, particularly Alzheimer's disease, are advancing rapidly.

One of Adas' current major initiatives is helping establish Kisunla® (donanemab) as a new treatment option at FirstHealth for eligible patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Kisunla is a monoclonal antibody that targets and helps remove amyloid plaques in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Monitoring Patients During Alzheimer's Treatment

The treatment does not reverse existing memory loss or cure Alzheimer's disease, but clinical studies have shown it can slow cognitive and functional decline in appropriately selected patients with early symptomatic disease.

Treatment requires careful monitoring, including regular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to watch for amyloid-related imaging abnormalities, known as ARIA, a potential side effect of treatment.

Adas has spent several months collaborating with FirstHealth neurology providers, imaging teams and other clinical staff to develop the processes needed to safely offer the treatment.

FirstHealth anticipates making Kisunla available to eligible patients in early 2027.

"Treatment for Alzheimer's disease is changing, and it's an exciting time in neurological care," Adas said. "As new options become available, patients and families need someone who can help them understand those options and navigate the journey. I'm honored to be able to serve in that role."

Supporting Patients and Families Through Neurological Care

FirstHealth recognizes The Foundation of FirstHealth for its generous support of neurological care initiatives, including funding the establishment of the neuro nurse navigator position. Through philanthropic support, the Foundation helps provide resources that enhance care and education and support for patients and families navigating neurological conditions.

Patients or families with concerns about memory changes or other neurological symptoms are encouraged to talk with their primary care provider or neurologist about appropriate evaluation and treatment options.

For more information about neurological care and navigation resources at FirstHealth, contact Marjorie Adas, R.N., Neuro Nurse Navigator, at (910) 715-8420.