Multiple sclerosis and access to healthcare in the Pays de la Loire region: preliminary study based on 130 self-applied double questionnaires.

Abstract Objective To check whether the use of an autoquestionnaire is adapted to obtain information about perceptions of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients concerning access to healthcare in the Pays de la Loire region of France. Patients and methods Patients with MS were asked to complete a questionnaire concerning access to 31 healthcare professionals or social services. The questionnaires were anonymous and consisted of one page for the patient and one page for a member of his or her entourage. The questionnaires were returned in a prepaid stamped addressed envelope. The first 130 exploitable questionnaires were analysed. Results Over 50% of patients with MS found access to general practitioners, neurologists, nurses and pharmacists useful, as well as access to less MS-specific specialists, for example, dentists, ophthalmologists or gynaecologists. Physical medicine and rehabilitation practitioners were not required until later in the course of the disease. Patients and their entourage rated the importance of access to care differently for bladder and sexual problems, and for support for cognitive and psychological problems. Conclusion This study validates the use of a questionnaire to obtain information about patient perceptions of access to healthcare. The study also suggests a hierarchy of care needs, insufficient patient information, and disparities in access to care related to where the patients live.