Racial disparities in multiple sclerosis quality of care metrics

Background: Modifiable factors that contribute to racial disparities in healthcare have been highlighted in multiple clinical settings; however, the role of these factors in individuals with multiple sclerosis has not been well examined. Objectives: In this study, we quantify disparities in multiple sclerosis care among non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White patients. Methods: Longitudinal data across four encounters obtained via retrospective chart review were analyzed for non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White patients across two multiple sclerosis centers. Variables included demographics, multiple sclerosis characteristics, and clinical care factors. Results: In total, 150 non-Hispanic Black and 150 non-Hispanic White patients were included (mean age = 49.3 vs 53.6). Non-Hispanic Black patients had longer time gaps between encounters with their multiple sclerosis clinician versus non-Hispanic White (mean months = 10.3 vs 8.8; adjusted mean difference = 1.53 months (95% confidence interval = 0.59, 2.47; p = 0.001)). Non-Hispanic Black patients less frequently received comprehensive/longer encounters, evaluations for a recent relapse, or had magnetic resonance imaging findings discussed during encounters relative to non-Hispanic White, although these findings were not statistically significant. Conclusions: Gaps in multiple sclerosis care metrics, including lower levels of care and greater time between encounters, were observed for non-Hispanic Black compared to non-Hispanic White patients with multiple sclerosis, all of which may contribute to disparities in multiple sclerosis. Further research is needed to assess contributing clinician, patient, and systemic factors.