Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation: Inpatient vs. Outpatient

Little is known concerning the costs and benefits of rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis (MS). The goal of this study was to compare the effects of inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation upon functional status, need for home assistance, and utilization of inpatient care. Eighty-four severely disabled MS patients were randomly assigned to either inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation. Both groups received similar rehabilitative services. Patients were evaluated at entry using the Incapacity Status Scale and a structured interview, with follow-up after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Data collection is ongoing, but some analysis is provided of results obtained thus far.