QL03
Impacting Lives Affected By MS: Evaluation of the National MS Society's MS Navigator Program
Part of the fundamental mission of the National MS Society is to help individuals affected by MS overcome the challenges associated with this chronic and debilitating disease. Individuals with MS need access to resources to function safely and independently with a respectively high quality of life (Osborne et al., 2013). Many such resources are available; however, individuals and families may not know how to find them. The Society addresses these concerns through a nationwide MS Navigator program that starts at the Information Resource Center (IRC), a 5 day/week call center; connecting people affected by MS to the information, resources and support needed to move their lives forward.
Objectives: Not applicable
Methods: The current study evaluated the MS Navigator program at immediate post call and 6-week follow-up. Baseline sample contains 294 participants (91% PwMS), age (M = 48.22 yrs.), length of diagnosis (M = 13.01 yrs); 6-week sample contains 193 participants (PwMS). All participants spoke with an MS Navigator who listened to them and addressed their particular needs. Data was collected via retrospective pre/post and 6-week follow-up surveys.
Results: Paired sample t-tests found PwMS with higher levels of MS symptoms reported significant increase in Mental Health Quality of Life (SF-12) t(49) = 3.42, p < .01 from post (M = 40.10; SD = 11.81) to 6 wks (M = 42.60; SD = 11.83); decreases in stress (MSQoL) t(100) = 1.28, p < .01 from post (M = 3.45; SD = 1.14) to 6 wks (M = 3.19; SD = 1.12); increase in confidence in one’s ability to cope (Liverpool self-efficacy scale; p < .01); increase in health care satisfaction (p <.01). Immediate post outcomes include decreased anxiety, stress and increased knowledge and support (PwMS & SP).
Conclusions:
Through a nationwide team approach and technology, the IRC provides an evidence-based service to improve lives for people affected by MS. Having the proper resources to manage MS, both medically and psychosocially, can drastically improve one’s quality of life (WHO, 2006). The MS Navigator program is a successful first step in connecting individuals affected by MS to the resources that they need to live their best lives.