Abstract
Studies on communicating the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) are few, and all reveal communication and information deficits. We explored the personal experience of diagnosis communication of people with MS and health professionals, using a qualitative methodology. Data were obtained from two sets of focus group meetings (FGM) with people with MS (total 23; 16 females; age range: 23-70) and one FGMs with health professionals (four neurologists, three psychologists, two nurses). The methods of framework analysis were applied to meeting transcripts to identify key topics and categories. The experience of communicating/ receiving an MS diagnosis was highly varied; all patients reported the moment as powerfully evocative and unforgettable. Very poor levels of support and information were sometimes given. Although diagnosis communication had improved in more recent experience, all felt it should be further improved with appropriate setting (privacy, no interruptions, sufficient time), information tailored to the individual, and continuity of care. Such improvements imply a more meaningful patient-neurologist relationship, and also structural and organisational changes.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 763-769 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Multiple Sclerosis Journal |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jul 2007 |
Keywords
- Communication
- Diagnosis
- Focus group
- Multiple sclerosis
- Qualitative research
- Shared decision-making
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Neurology