H007 EHDN physiotherapy working group: dissemination of clinical recommendations

<h3>Background</h3> Clinical guidelines for physiotherapy for people with Huntington’s disease (HD) were published in 2020 (Quinn et al. 2020). The EHDN Physiotherapy Working Group (PWG) developed resources to ensure communication and collaboration with the HD community so that education and advice regarding the guidelines is freely available to all. <h3>Methods</h3> Two workstreams developed resources in line with the 2020 physiotherapy guidelines that were reviewed by PWG physiotherapists. A pre-launch survey was conducted to ascertain use of the guidelines, referrals to physiotherapy monthly and provision of physiotherapy resources in HD specialist clinics. An email was sent to ENROLL-HD clinics globally and USA HD Centers of Excellence (n=170) with a link to the online survey. <h3>Outcomes</h3> Six handouts for HD specialist clinics were developed. Topics were Exercise and resistance training, Balance and walking training and Cognitive, emotional and behavioural issues, with separate versions for healthcare professionals and people with HD. A single reference guide was developed for residential care homes. The survey had 30 respondents mostly from USA and UK. Physiotherapy guidelines were used in only eight clinics (26%), approximately 50% of clinic patients were referred for physiotherapy and resources were local rather than from the EHDN. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Physiotherapy resources will be disseminated to ENROLL-HD clinics, USA HD Centers of Excellence, physiotherapy governing bodies and HD associations across Europe. A survey will be sent 6- and 12-months post launch to HD clinics to evaluate the impact of these resources. Co-design of resources for people with HD in the community is ongoing.