Using Quality Improvement for Refining Program Materials for Exercise Promotion in Comprehensive Multiple Sclerosis Care.

Fifolt, Matthew; Richardson, Emma V; Barstow, Elizabeth A; Motl, Robert W

INTRODUCTION There is a gap between evidence-based knowledge of exercise benefits and the translation of these benefits among persons with multiple sclerosis within clinical practice. This study represents the second cycle of a Plan-Do-Study-Act ramp to assess and improve three exercise promotion practice models and a screening process for use by healthcare providers to bridge the knowledge-translation gap within comprehensive multiple sclerosis care. METHODS Using a quality improvement design, our research team created an online survey for evaluating program materials by healthcare providers (i.e., neurologists, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists). Participants provided written comments and suggestions for improvement regarding roles and responsibilities and clarity and relatability of these tools within a real-world setting. RESULTS Healthcare providers submitted 13 suggestions for improvement. Responses informed four specific improvements regarding program materials (i.e., patient screening, current exercise behavior, referrals, and provider checklists), thereby prompting the research team to adapt and further test the change idea. CONCLUSIONS This article provides a step forward in a line of research focused on developing a systems-based process for integrating exercise promotion as part of comprehensive multiple sclerosis care.