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Updated: Apr 18, 2026
The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test MSPT: An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
Remote cognitive assessments for patients with multiple sclerosis: a feasibility study
Jill R Settle1, Stephanie A Robinson2, Robert Kane3
1Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC/ Veterans Affairs Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence-East, USA jill.settle@va.gov.
Background:
measuring cognitive function in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be challenging given the obstacles faced when traveling to testing centers.
Objective:
the purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of remote cognitive assessment in patients with MS using the automated neuropsychological assessment metrics (ANAM-MS) and the symbol digit modalities test (SDMT).
Methods:
patients meeting the McDonald criteria for MS (n = 24) were randomized to complete the live-in-office condition or a remote-in-office condition first, with all patients completing both sessions. Patients (n = 20) then completed a final remote-in-home testing session. Both remote sessions were proctored by a psychologist using a secure telehealth connection.
Results:
scores on the live SDMT differed from scores in the two remote settings F(2, 38) = 4.46, p = 0.018. However, summary scores on the ANAM-MS were similar across the three settings, F(2, 36) = 2.21, p = 0.124. Satisfaction with telehealth testing was high on the part of the examiner and patients. Each telehealth testing session saved more than $144.00 in travel costs and lost wages.
Conclusion:
this study demonstrated that valid results can be obtained when evaluating patients remotely using ANAM-MS. Some differences were noted for the SDMT that suggest that either specific norms or a different implementation approach may be needed for telehealth.
