MS-Patienten in einem überregionalen ambulanten MS-Zentrum: Einfluss der Einrichtung einer Patientenakademie auf die Adhärenz und Gründe für den Therapiewechsel

Abstract

Background Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease with unknown cure. Though several therapies exist, only consequent medication receipts lead to satisfying results. To reach this, qualified patient education seems to be the relevant key to constructive adherence. Therefore, a patient academy was introduced and the benefits of this academy were examined. In addition, the comparatively new oral drugs have been examined as they seem to be more comfortable in receipts, but the concrete reasons for changing the treatment have not been well examined prior to this study. Material and Methods A prospective online survey as a questionnaire was carried out in Germany to gain data on treatment adherence and reasons for changes in medical treatment of MS patients. Patients were asked about their own perception of knowledge and adherence to the treatment of their disease. Furthermore, the reasons and recommendations for treatment change were examined. Results 214 patient questionnaires were used as a base for this analysis. Approximately 87% recorded a RRMS. 113 patients changed from parenteral treatment to oral drugs. The self-assessment of treatment adherence was 1.46 on average, the self-assessment of the level of knowledge was 2.1 (1=very good, 5=very bad). Most patients visited 5 or fewer meetings at patients’ academy. There was a significant correlation in linear regression between knowledge and adherence (p=0.0006, r²=0.05). The most important reason for treatment change was the general hope for improvement. The most influential factor on the decision to change treatment was the advice given by the medical professionals, namely treating physicians and MS nurses. Conclusions The most important factor for adherence is professional mediated knowledge. The recommendations for treatment change by commercial advertising has not been identified to be a relevant factor.