Patient Satisfaction with Physicians and Nurse Practitioners in Multiple Sclerosis Centers

Abstract Background: With the predicted shortage of neurologists, care of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) may be affected. Nurse practitioners (NPs) have successfully filled the provider gaps in a variety of care settings, with positive effects on care outcomes, including patient satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to determine patient satisfaction with physicians (MDs) and NPs in MS centers. Methods: This is a cross-sectional pilot study wherein a convenience sample was recruited from two MS centers. Demographic data were collected previsit, and satisfaction surveys were completed postvisit using the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form (PSQ-18) and the Visit-Specific Satisfaction Instrument (VSQ-9). Different attributes of satisfaction and visit times were analyzed. Results: Patient satisfaction with both types of providers was high. All attributes of satisfaction were comparable for NPs and MDs, and they spent similar amounts of time with their patients, often exceeding the scheduled office visit duration. Encounter length was a strong determinant of patient satisfaction: VSQ-9 scores were significantly lower (P = .01) when duration was less than 20 minutes. Satisfaction was higher (P = .011) in patients who were diagnosed as having MS for 10 years or longer or had progressive MS, irrespective of provider type. Conclusions: This pilot study showed that use of standardized questionnaires to determine patient satisfaction with NPs and MDs was feasible. With the impending neurologist shortage and the increased MS prevalence, a collaborative team approach between NPs and MDs may improve access to care in MS centers without compromising patient satisfaction.