Utilization of Collaborative Therapy Services Among Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis: A Case Series

Background: none

Objectives: Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, progressive neurologic condition that can affect all aspects of an individual’s daily life due to pain, fatigue, cognitive decline and weakness amongst many other symptoms. Evidence supports the use of interdisciplinary rehabilitation services to address these barriers. The purpose of this case series is to examine the dynamic relationship between physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) in the treatment of Veterans with multiple sclerosis in order to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.

Methods: This case series describes the outcomes of seven Veterans with a history of multiple sclerosis who participated in physical and occupational therapy services using combined telehealth and in-person service delivery models. Physical therapy interventions lasted twelve weeks and focused on improvements in functional balance, strength, and mobility. Occupational therapy care lasted approximately four months and consisted of self-care training, community and work reintegration, and general energy conservation and fatigue management. Upon discharge from both services, the Veterans completed a semi-structured interview that assessed satisfaction of collaborative therapy services. Routine collaboration between PT and OT was emphasized to reinforce intervention and acquired skills.

Results: Results of the survey indicated overall satisfaction with concurrent physical therapy and occupational therapy services as they related to quality of interventions, communication between providers, and achievement of patient needs and goals. Results suggest a need to establish and implement a collaborative service delivery model that highlights the relationship between PT and OT practitioners to enhance patient outcomes.

Conclusions: This case series highlights the benefits of interdisciplinary care administered through complementary PT and OT plans of care for seven Veterans with multiple sclerosis. Furthermore, there is a need to complete additional research regarding methods of interdisciplinary carryover and reinforcement to achieve improved outcomes.