Homecare support to improve adherence in multiple sclerosis

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Abstract
There are approximately 100 000 people in the UK who have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Long-term adherence by patients to the widely used treatment disease modifying therapies (DMTs) can be a challenge. The aim of this survey was to understand the critical points of contact where homecare support could impact adherence and provide suggestions to improve the homecare support services provided to MS patients. Homecare support is defined as any sponsored patient support programme from a homecare company. Surveys were sent to 5 025 MS patients and 150 MS nurses working within the NHS. Completed survey responses were obtained from 1 868 MS patients (37%) and 42 MS nurses (28%). Patients and specialist nurses reported that training and support in the early stages of treatment could influence adherence, particularly when that training is tailored specifically to the patients’ requirements and unlimited by time and resources.
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