8388
Connect Trial of Online Professional Esupport Groups for Black and Latinx People Living with MS
Objectives: Determine feasibility and initial efficacy of a 12-week program of eSupport to decrease depression or anxiety in Black and Latinx MS patients.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Recruitment took place via individual centers, the National African Americans with MS Registry, and the National MS Society. To be eligible, individuals had to be at least 18 years old, have a diagnosis of MS, and identify as Black, Latinx, or non-Black / Latinx.
Results: A total of 208 pwMS signed informed consent and were pre-screened; 99.5% were Black or Latinx. A total of 52 pwMS were enrolled; treatment group consisted of 34 pwMS who completed the 12-week program, 18 served as a waitlist control group. In the treatment group, average adherence was 75%. Efficacy data have not yet been evaluated for the full sample. Based on qualitative feedback received at a post-study debrief session, participants found the program to be very beneficial, and particularly appreciated having a person of color as the study coach.
Conclusions: Telehealth-delivered support groups for Black and Latinx pwMS are an accessible, affordable, and well-liked treatment for mental health. Based on qualitative participant feedback, secondary benefits of participation may include decreased loneliness and increased medication adherence. Finding acceptable treatments for mental health for historically underserved populations is a research priority that addresses the longstanding problem of healthcare disparities.