The perceptions of people with multiple sclerosis about the NHS provision of physiotherapy services

Purpose: In 2008, the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) and MS Trust conducted a second audit of NHS services for people with MS (PwMS). Using the free text comments obtained from the RCP and MS Trust audit, this study aimed to perform content analysis on the views of PwMS about MS services, focussing on physiotherapy provision. Method: A total of 757 PwMS included a free text comment on MS services and an additional 41 commented separately about physiotherapy services. The data were analysed using content analysis, which identified three main themes, positive, negative and neutral and subsequent categories and sub-categories. Intra- and inter-rater reliability were assessed and the data were manipulated to address the research aim. Results: This study found that the majority of the free text comments on MS services were negative (55%). Physiotherapy provision was rated the most negative of NHS services (38%), with the primary complaints being lack of information about services and excessive waiting times for appointments. Conclusion: This study has revealed that NHS physiotherapy provision is not meeting the needs of PwMS. Implications for RehabilitationThe findings of the present study suggest that the perceived needs of patients with MS in England and Wales, including information about physiotherapy services and shorter waiting times for appointments for treatment are not met.Rehabilitation professionals and service providers need to review their services in light of the current evidence related to the needs of patients with MS.