Shared decision-making for multiple sclerosis using the MS-SUPPORT tool: a plain language summary

What is this summary about? The study was done to find out whether using an online tool called MS-SUPPORT can help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their healthcare providers (clinicians) work together when making treatment decisions. This may help people with MS start and stay with the best treatment plan and improve their quality of life. What are the key takeaways? The study found that most people with MS who used the online MS-SUPPORT tool were more likely to start a disease-modifying therapy (DMT) and more likely to follow the prescribed treatment plan. Additionally, they were also likely to recommend it to others and felt that it helped them talk to their doctors. The people who completed MS SUPPORT were more likely to say they understood their MS. They also had fewer days of poor mental health than those who did not use the MS-SUPPORT tool. What were the main conclusions reported by the researchers? These findings suggest the MS-SUPPORT tool can help people to 1) feel more confident talking to their doctors; 2) understand their MS symptoms better; 3) stick with their treatment; and 4) have better overall mental health. This tool may improve quality of life by improving communication with the clinician and engagement in the treatment journey. The findings of this study will help healthcare professionals and people with MS work together more effectively.