Implementing vocational rehabilitation for people with multiple sclerosis in the UK National Health Service: a mixed-methods feasibility study

Blanca De Dios Perez ^1,2, Jain Holmes ¹, Tracey Elder ³

⁰Centre for Rehabilitation and Ageing Research, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.

Disability and Rehabilitation +

|

October 22, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study explored a job retention vocational rehabilitation (VR) intervention for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients in the UK. The MSVR intervention showed promise in improving vocational goal attainment for individuals with MS.

Area Of Science

Rehabilitation Medicine
Occupational Therapy
Public Health

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) significantly impacts an individual's ability to maintain employment.
Vocational rehabilitation (VR) interventions are crucial for supporting individuals with chronic conditions in the workplace.
The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK faces challenges in providing tailored employment support for MS patients.

Purpose Of The Study

To implement and assess the feasibility of a novel job retention vocational rehabilitation (VR) intervention, named MSVR, for individuals with MS and their employers within the UK NHS.
To evaluate the acceptability and practicality of the MSVR intervention delivered by an occupational therapist (OT).

Main Methods

A multicentre, single-arm feasibility study was conducted.
The MSVR intervention was delivered by an occupational therapist (OT) to participants with MS and their employers.
Feasibility was assessed via recruitment rates, compliance, and delivery practicality. Acceptability was determined through post-intervention interviews. Vocational outcomes were measured using a survey at immediate post-intervention and 3-month follow-up.

Main Results

Recruitment and OT training presented challenges. Twenty participants with MS, three employers, and three healthcare professionals were recruited.
The MSVR intervention was largely adhered to, with improvements noted in vocational goal attainment post-intervention and at follow-up (p < 0.001).
Qualitative interviews revealed six key themes, including intervention impact, support accessibility, the OT's role, and workplace factors, highlighting barriers to NHS delivery.

Conclusions

The MSVR intervention is acceptable to individuals with MS and their employers.
Challenges in recruitment and identifying suitable participants require attention for future implementation.
Participants expressed a desire for a longer intervention duration to address ongoing needs, indicating potential for further development.

Keywords:

Vocational rehabilitation job retention multiple sclerosis national health service occupational therapy

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