The role of the community nurse in care provision for people with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative neurological condition that is often diagnosed in young adults in their 20s and 30s and is more common in women than in men. The long-term and unpredictable nature of the condition poses significant challenges for care delivery. The UK has one of the highest incidences of MS in the world, and care delivery for people with long-term conditions such as MS in the UK is changing: whereas previously it predominantly took place from a hospital setting, it now more commonly occurs in a primary care setting. In addition, patients and carers are recognised as equal partners in the planning and delivery of care. This article explores the approaches used by community nurses providing care to patients and families in a multiagency context.