Having the conversation about work with people with multiple sclerosis: a guide for healthcare professionals. (November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cardone, Antonella
• Is Part Of: Neurodegenerative disease management. Volume 7:Number 6(2017)Supplement
• Page Start: 41
• Page End: 44
• Publication Date: 2017-11
• Subjects: economics -- multiple sclerosis -- work -- workability; Nervous system -- Degeneration -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2017-0041
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-2024

Abstract

The ability to work is important for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, only 37% of those with mild MS are in work. Across Europe, lost work productivity accounts for a third of the €15 billion total annual cost of MS. Supporting people with MS into employment should be a clinical care priority in order to maximize work productivity, inclusiveness and therapeutic benefit. A guide for healthcare professionals on having conversations about work with people with MS has been developed through the 'Ready for Work' project. Work should be considered as a clinical outcome. The focus should be on what patients can do, rather than what they cannot do, at work. Effective communication is fundamental in supporting patients' return to work.