title: Top 10 needs of people with multiple sclerosis and their significant others.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to identify the needs of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their significant others. A quantitative questionnaire, developed from focus groups and consisting of 75 needs statements, was administered to 353 MS patients and 240 significant others. Analysis produced rankings of the 10 most important needs of both groups. Rankings by the MS patients and significant others were similar. Three themes emerged. Psychosocial and other personal needs (relationship with physicians, the MS healthcare team, family, and friends) were ranked with high frequency. Information needs (information regarding MS or available support) and financial security were also ranked as important. The data validate the importance of interdisciplinary care for the MS population.
authors.affiliation: Neuromuscular Clinic, Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada. wilma.koopman@lhsc.on.ca
authors.forename: Wilma J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: Koopman
authors.forename: Cathy-Lee
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Benbow
authors.forename: Margaret
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Vandervoort
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009864:Ontario; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012944:Social Support