title: Evaluation of a transmural care model for multiple sclerosis patients.
abstract: This study assessed a transmural care model for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients to see whether it would improve patient outcomes, continuity of care, and quality of life. The study group consisted of 77 MS patients who received care on the basis of the Transmural Care Model for Multiple Sclerosis. A comparison group of 96 MS patients received traditional care as usual. A written questionnaire was sent to both groups of participants at baseline and 10 months later. The questionnaire focused on healthcare use and needs, continuity of care, and health-related quality of life. Few differences were found between the two groups. Active participation of and cooperation among healthcare professionals do not automatically lead to improved outcomes in MS patients.
authors.affiliation: Social Medicine Section, Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands. d.e.m.c.jansen@med.umcg.nl
authors.forename: Daniëlle E M C
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Jansen
authors.forename: Boudien
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Krol
authors.forename: Johan W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Groothoff
authors.forename: Doeke
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Post
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D019090:Case Management / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006296:Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017146:Models, Organizational; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000628:therapy*; D009426:Netherlands; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011788:Quality of Life; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires