Coventry University research study into the impact of the self management course on people with MS
Since 2004 Coventry University has worked with the MS Society to evaluate the impact of the Chronic Disease Self-Management Course (also known as the Expert Patient Programme - EPP) for people with MS. The EPP aims to increase self-efficacy through role-modelling, skill mastery, persuasion, re-interpretation of symptoms, problem solving, decision-making and action planning. Topics include an overview of self-management principles, diet and exercise, goal setting, problem-solving, confidence building, cognitive symptom management and communication with health professionals.
The evaluation is now complete and a summary of results is outlined below.
The study was a 2-group, randomised, wait-list controlled trial with an Intervention Group and a Waiting-List Control Group. Additional data were collected from a group of informed non-attenders, who were aware of the research and the course, but did not wish to attend (informed non-attenders). Questionnaire data were collected at baseline, 4 and 12 month follow-ups. In addition, interviews were conducted with a sub-sample of course participants to provide greater insight into the experience of EPP attendance form people with MS.
Results accord with similar studies in other disease populations showing small, but nonetheless important, effects on self-efficacy and depression with trends towards improvement on many outcomes for those attending the Course. People with MS who chose not to attend had lower levels of anxiety and less physical impact of MS. Levels of self-efficacy and psychological well-being were higher amongst MS participants in this study compared with arthritis participants recruited to similar studies.
Interview data showed the EPP provided a supportive, affirming environment. Participants appreciated the opportunity to share information and experiences. The process of sharing empowered participants and engendered feelings of acceptance and belonging. Group interaction reinforced that participants were not alone and provided a forum to give and receive practical and emotional support, both from other participants and lay tutors. Participants learned new self-management techniques, and were ‘reminded’ of techniques employed in the past. For example, many participants continued to use relaxation and ‘pacing’ in order to manage fatigue and pain. Goal setting was used as a catalyst for mastering new skills on the EPP. Achieving small, realistic goals enhanced participants’ self-efficacy and led to feelings of empowerment and positive outlook. Participants generalised the applied techniques learned through the EPP to other situations not directly connected to their MS, such as parenting, social activities and work. Some participants felt the course to be too basic, and would welcome a more advanced course focusing specifically on the needs of people with MS particularly in the areas of fatigue management and managing MS in the workplace. In addition, a more positive approach promoting self-management by acknowledging and extending existing strengths is warranted.
If you would like a copy of the full report email the Education Team.
Results accord with similar studies in other disease populations showing small, but nonetheless important, effects on self-efficacy and depression with trends towards improvement on many outcomes for those attending the Course. People with MS who chose not to attend had lower levels of anxiety and less physical impact of MS. Levels of self-efficacy and psychological well-being were higher amongst MS participants in this study compared with arthritis participants recruited to similar studies.
Interview data showed the EPP provided a supportive, affirming environment. Participants appreciated the opportunity to share information and experiences. The process of sharing empowered participants and engendered feelings of acceptance and belonging. Group interaction reinforced that participants were not alone and provided a forum to give and receive practical and emotional support, both from other participants and lay tutors. Participants learned new self-management techniques, and were ‘reminded’ of techniques employed in the past. For example, many participants continued to use relaxation and ‘pacing’ in order to manage fatigue and pain. Goal setting was used as a catalyst for mastering new skills on the EPP. Achieving small, realistic goals enhanced participants’ self-efficacy and led to feelings of empowerment and positive outlook. Participants generalised the applied techniques learned through the EPP to other situations not directly connected to their MS, such as parenting, social activities and work. Some participants felt the course to be too basic, and would welcome a more advanced course focusing specifically on the needs of people with MS particularly in the areas of fatigue management and managing MS in the workplace. In addition, a more positive approach promoting self-management by acknowledging and extending existing strengths is warranted.
If you would like a copy of the full report email the Education Team.
