Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis are faced with a future of life long struggle managing the complications of a degenerative disease. The next attack is not a matter of “if” but “when” it will occur. Can you imagine anticipating the next symptom and not knowing when or how it will present itself? Vision loss, incontinence, loss of motor function, dysphasia… the list of potential flare ups goes on and on. There is significant opportunity to help patients by offering them support in navigating life around these attacks and reducing the disease burden. While MS is incurable, some of the most innovative therapies have come out over the past 20 years. Modern day DMTs are capable of curbing disease progression, giving patients the best chance at QOL improvement more than ever before. As we continue to make such advancements and bring even more effective therapies to market, equal attention should be given to the patient as a whole when providing patient engagement.
Daily life interruptions as a result of this condition are clearly unpredictable for an individual struggling with MS. All the more reason to offer meaningful support such as tracking symptoms and potential triggers, assisting in care connections, and providing a reliable source to keep patients armed with information to maintain their lifestyle and health.
The reality is it’s all about maintaining the best quality of life for individuals living MS. Incorporating a patient-centric approach, first and foremost, provides a level of support that can help improve a patient’s QOL beyond treatment alone. In complement to treatment, engagement tools are also necessary to give patients the best chance to stay on therapy, which is essential to keeping them healthier longer.
Zealic’s SMEs have compiled some of the most important aspects to consider when designing engagement for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis.