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The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test (MSPT): An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
Desired clinic characteristics and unmet support needs for adults with multiple sclerosis: A cross-sectional survey
Ryan Kammeyer1, Stefan Sillau, Kimberly Chapman2
1Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
Background:
Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have individual needs, preferences, and barriers to how they receive care; providers require an understanding of these to facilitate comprehensive clinical care.
Objective:
To determine MS clinic characteristics currently valued by or desired by adults with MS, their unmet support needs, and their barriers to care.
Methods:
An electronic cross-sectional survey was iteratively developed by a multidisciplinary team and distributed to adults with MS.
Results:
Three hundred and eighty-seven participants completed the survey. The most desired characteristics in an MS clinic were the training or knowledge (55%) and compassion (54%) of providers, along with urgent appointment availability (48%). Appointment availability, transportation, and financial costs were barriers to accessing care (44%, 39%, and 30%). Support was requested most often for making lifestyle changes, including improving exercise (52%) and diet (45%). Opportunities for additional support included in-clinic rehabilitation therapies, mental health, and nutritionist services.
Conclusions:
Adults with MS report multiple desired clinic characteristics and support needs that are currently unmet. Opportunities for improving care and support include expanding in-clinic services, greater appointment availability, transportation, and education on exercise and diet. Future studies will benefit from assessing the effectiveness of expanded services or support programs in these areas.
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