Vocational rehabilitation services for people with multiple sclerosis: what patients want from clinicians and employers

Abstract

Background The NSF for Long-term Neurological Conditions highlights the need for vocational rehabilitation services. Although the barriers to work for people with MS (pwMS) have been clearly identified, there has been little research that identifies the type of support required. Objective To identify what pwMS require from a vocational rehabilitation service in terms of content and service delivery. Design of study Four focus groups of pwMS, currently in employment, were convened. These were audio-taped and content analysed using a constant comparison method. Results People with MS identified two key needs; managing performance and managing expectations. Performance difficulties could be managed either by treating symptoms, by changing the environment, or by altering the demands of the job. PwMS highlighted the need for counselling to help them, and advocacy to help their employers have appropriate expectations. Conclusion PwMS need support in the workplace in two distinct ways. First, by managing the interaction between the impairments caused by MS, the physical environment, and the demands imposed by the work. Second, by providing expert knowledge about the employment environment and the needs of employers, an awareness of the relevant legislation and counselling in supporting people to adapt, adjust and resolve complex issues. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 1183—1189. http://msj.sagepub.com