Factors influencing interest in providing MS patient care among physiatry residents

BACKGROUND: Rehabilitation care is an important part of comprehensive care for MS patients. Little is known about the number of physiatry residents who are interested in providing care to individuals with multiple sclerosis [MS].

OBJECTIVE: This study examines factors that influence physiatry residents' interest in providing care to MS patients.

METHODS: We randomly sampled half of all Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation residency programs in the continental United States and Puerto Rico. Surveys were received from 74% of programs (Stage 1 response rate) and from 221 residents (45% Stage 2 response rate).

RESULTS: Residents expressing interest in providing MS care were more likely to be female, Asian, and to select statements emphasizing multidisciplinary care approaches and a community of dedicated professional colleagues as positive features of MS patient care. Residents interested in teaching and with more education debt were marginally more likely to express interest in MS care.

CONCLUSIONS: Medical education should emphasize the need for physical medicine and rehabilitative care among individuals with MS, the ability of physiatrists to improve the functional status and quality of life for MS patients, and the team-based nature of MS care.