Feasibility of a registry-integrated eHealth program for managing fatigue and cognitive problems in multiple...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Digital Health
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Fatigue and cognitive impairment are significant challenges for people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).
• Effective management strategies are crucial for improving the quality of life for pwMS.
• Digital health solutions offer a promising avenue for accessible symptom management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a digital symptom management program for fatigue and cognitive symptoms in pwMS.
• To evaluate the integration of an eHealth program within the Finnish MS Registry.
• To explore patient engagement and perceived usefulness of the digital intervention.

Main Methods:

• An eight-session eHealth program was delivered to 40 pwMS.
• The program included self-assessments, a mobile fatigue diary, goal setting, and neuropsychologist feedback.
• Feasibility was measured by completion rates, perceived usefulness, and technical functionality, alongside various patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Main Results:

• The program completion rate was 58% (23 participants).
• 65% found the program useful, and 70% deemed it technically appropriate.
• Slightly positive changes were reported in managing fatigue and cognitive symptoms, though other PROMs showed minimal changes.

Conclusions:

• The registry-integrated eHealth program demonstrates potential for supporting fatigue and cognitive symptom management in pwMS.
• Further research and development of digital symptom management tools are recommended.
• Digital interventions may enhance self-management capabilities for individuals with MS.