125  Towards an optimal multiple sclerosis patient case-load for a full-time MSologist. Issue 6 (27th May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giovannoni, Gavin; Hobart, Jeremy; Mazibrada, Gordon; Bateman, Karen; Marta, Monica
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 93:Issue 6(2022)
• Page Start: A140
• Page End: A140
• Publication Date: 2022-05-27
• Subjects: Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-ABN.450
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Strategy, evidence and anticipation should underpin workforce-planning. Aim: To estimate a sustainable patient-caseload (PCL) for a full-time equivalent MS specialist neurologist (FTE-MSologist). Methods: Hypothetically, an FTE-MSologist refers to 10-MSology-related programmed activities per week. We considered three service models (core, aspirational, alternative/DGH) with differing frequency, duration and content of patient consultations and monitoring. We computed the ideal number of new patients and existing patients, for each scenario, from detailed qualitative interviews with 4 MSologists at different NHS Trusts. Computations assumed all 3 scenarios had common support from MS nurses (@315 PLwMS/FTE MS nurse), MS coordinators, neuroradiology, neuropharmacist and administration. Results: Estimates for 1-FTE-MSologist/year/service model were: Core: new-PCL=81 (range=46–115); existing- PCL=798 (range=672–923). Aspirational: new-PCL=21 (range=28–69); existing-PCL=481 (range=401–561). Alternative/DGH: new-PCL=89 (range=51–126); existing-PCL=874 (range=733–1015). Conclusions: These MS PCL/FTE-MSologist estimates enable future NHS manpower planning to optimally staff specialist MS services. It is notable that few (if any) UK MS services have the support considered pre- requisite. Much of the direct clinical care work undertaken is "unseen" and not formally job-planned. These results have significant implications formal time and motion studies may be required to improve estimates' accuracy. Support.Karen Bateman was supported by Novartis. Disclosures: See poster [e-mail]