A program to facilitate retention of employment among persons with multiple sclerosis.
OBJECTIVE
The objective was to develop and evaluate the feasibility of a medical-community job-retention model in MS.


METHODS
43 individuals with MS at risk for losing their jobs were randomized to one of two groups. Both received standard medical care. The experimental group received specialized services geared toward job-retention conducted by medical personnel and an employment specialist. The control group received only standard medical care. Both groups were followed for 1 year.


RESULTS
The new program was feasible, however, participants made little use of its services. At the I-year follow-up there was no difference between the two groups in job retention.


CONCLUSIONS
A combined medical-community job-retention program is feasible in MS. However, patients do not generally wish to take advantage of job-retention services until an employment crisis develops. Future programs should develop more effective approaches to early intervention to realize their maximum potential.
Medical Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Department of Medicine, St. Agnes Hospital-New York Medical College, White Plains, NY, USA.
N G
NG
Larocca
Medical Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Department of Medicine, St. Agnes Hospital-New York Medical College, White Plains, NY, USA.
R C
RC
Kalb
Small and Associates, 63 Valley Street, Orange, NJ 07079, USA.
K
K
Gregg
Chronic illness; Disability; Job retention; Rehabilitation; Vocational