RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has likely had a negative impact on rehabilitation and quality of life (QoL) research in multiple sclerosis (MS). METHOD: We explored perceived barriers to research among 87 researchers, representing 18 countries, both prior to and since COVID-19. RESULTS: A Wilcoxon signed-rank test found that significantly more researchers reported experiencing barriers to research since the onset of the pandemic compared to pre-COVID-19 (p < .001), with 78% of respondents reporting at least some barriers since COVID-19. The most commonly-cited barriers related to participant access (n = 38) and interruptions/delays to projects (n = 19). Although no gender differences were found in the number of barriers reported, female respondents were more likely to cite time or competing demands as barriers to research. Females were also more likely to perceive being negatively impacted by the pandemic compared to other genders (p = .007). CONCLUSIONS: Implications for the future landscape of rehabilitation research in MS are discussed.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Healthcare providers caring for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have had significant concerns about the intersection of MS and COVID-19. As a result, there has been an urgency to understand and share information about how to best provide MS clinical care during COVID-19. The Project ECHO model is well-suited for this challenge, as it provides a uniquely efficient and effective approach to sharing information in real-time using real cases. We report on the translation of the Project ECHO model for the rapid sharing of knowledge among MS clinical providers during COVID-19. METHODS: The ECHO MS COVID-19 Response Clinic was a videoconference-based education and case consultation program offered to providers in the U.S. who care for individuals with MS. The Response Clinic was offered as four sessions, each delivered by three regional hubs. Data were collected on participation and the self-reported impact of the program. RESULTS: A total of 132 unique providers participated in the Response Clinic, which consisted of 11 didactic modules and 43 case consultations. Participant providers overwhelmingly indicated that the program improved their knowledge, attitude, and skills for providing healthcare for people with MS during the COVID-19 pandemic. DISCUSSION: The Project ECHO model was successfully adapted to serve the needs of the MS community during COVID-19, suggesting the program could be continued or could be expanded to other disease areas for a similar purpose. More research is needed to objectively measure the impact of the program on patient outcomes.