Experiences of persons with multiple sclerosis of a collaborative care programme: A qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Healthcare Management
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) presents complex management challenges requiring coordinated patient care.
• Existing care models may not fully address the multifaceted needs of individuals with MS.
• Understanding patient experiences is crucial for optimizing collaborative care programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and explain the lived experiences of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) within a collaborative care program.
• To identify key components and facilitators of effective collaborative care from the patient's perspective.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study employing purposive sampling with maximum variation was conducted with 18 individuals with MS.
• Semi-structured interviews were utilized to gather in-depth experiences regarding the collaborative care program.
• Conventional content analysis was applied to interview transcriptions using MAXQDA software.

Main Results:

• Three primary categories emerged: 'Beginning of Communication' (including trust formation), 'Mutual Interaction' (dialogue, goal setting, care solutions), and 'Exchange of Targeted Behaviors' (strategies for nutrition, sleep, exercise, fatigue, and stress management).
• Participants' experiences highlighted the importance of trust, open communication, and shared decision-making in collaborative care.
• The study detailed specific behavioral strategies implemented by patients to manage MS symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative care plays a significant role in the effective management of multiple sclerosis.
• Findings support the development of evidence-based interventions to enhance support for individuals with MS through collaborative care models.
• Optimizing collaborative care can lead to improved health outcomes and quality of life for MS patients.