Desired clinic characteristics and unmet support needs for adults with multiple sclerosis: A cross-sectional survey.

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.