Posters

Lost to follow up: what are the implications

Y Jagatsinh, B Chandler, J Metcalfe, H Hunter, Newcastle.

Introduction:

MS is very variable for an individual. Changes may occur due to relapse, slow progression or as a secondary consequence, eg musculo-skeletal problems resulting from poor posture. If there is no regular review how are problems dealt with?

Method:

An out-reach service was developed in North Northumberland, in 2007 offering complementary therapies and access to a specialist nurse and neuro-physiotherapist (1). Data is presented to show how many health problems were identified requiring input or referral.

Results:

There have been 29 service users from Northumberland (N) and 10 from the Scottish Borders (S). 29 patients had problems requiring treatment and/or referral, see table.

Conclusions:

Follow up for patients with MS is variable and may be affected by availability of services, locality and patient preference. Many of the patients attending the out-reach service had no regular follow up and had simply "got on with things" not realising that help might exist for symptoms. Through contact with the out-reach service referrals were made. Had a system of follow up been in place these symptoms could have been addressed earlier. The recent Lord Darzi review has emphasised the importance of appropriate services which are available to all patients(2). We have shown that people can be lost to follow up and struggle with a variety of problems. Discussion with patients and service providers is needed to ensure fair, effective and timely follow up for symptom management and prevention of secondary problems.

References

1. Metcalfe J, et al.Outreach MS Services. Poster Presentation. MS Trust Annual conference; 2007 Nov 4-6; Leeds, UK

2. Darzi A. High Quality Care for all: NHS Next Stage Review Final Report. London: The Stationery office; 2008