Awareness and Utilization of Public Physiotherapy Health Care Services to Support People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Health Care Service Audit

Abstract Background: To maximize functioning and well-being in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), physiotherapy consultation is recommended at the point of diagnosis throughout disease course. We wanted to determine whether patients MS being managed through a large metropolitan hospital Australia accessed input as part their management consistent evidence-based recommendations identify patients’ self-reported requirements, including symptom management, information needs, service delivery preferences. Methods: Surveys were sent 597 clinic patients, 160 responded. Data analyzed using descriptive methods derive frequencies percentages. The survey consisted 16 questions plus 2 optional related sociodemographics (age postcode). Results: Of respondents, 142 completed all 14 nonoptional questions. One-third participants (n = 53) aware services, 21.3% 34) saying that they had these services. Conversely, 40.1% respondents 61) reported having consulted private physiotherapist. Combined, 52% seeing There was clear preference (94.7%; n 144) for access service. presence least 1 current MS-related problem by 82.2 2% 125). top ways via specialist website (57.6%) mobile app (55.6%). Conclusions: an unmet need physiotherapy, many may have foregone services due unawareness. Improved awareness uptake needed MS.