Evaluating a Financial Assistance Program for People Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Worldwide, an estimated 2.3 million people are living with multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an immune-mediated disease whereby myelin surrounding nerves degenerates and disrupts nerve signaling. Scar tissue plaques form and are referred to as sclerosis. People living with MS experience a wide and varied range of symptoms that can affect how they engage within society. The Financial Assistance Program offered by the National MS Society is intended to provide guidance, support, and resources to help manage the financial impact of MS. The goals of the intervention are to improve independence, safety, health, and quality of life for clients. This study is an evaluation of the Financial Assistance Program offered by the National MS Society, Greater Northwest Chapter. A survey including scaled and open-ended questions assessing the perceived impact of the program was utilized to gather data. Outcome measures included self-efficacy in advocating for needs, awareness of community resources, independent living, and perceptions of impact on family and friends. Survey results offer a nuanced understanding of the Financial Assistance Program. Clients indicated a difference in perceived impact between critical short-term needs and more sustainable forms assistance. Financial assistance eased stress on relationships with clients’ friends and families. Qualitative evidence suggested that support group members act as ambassadors within their communities to spread awareness about MS and the mission of the National MS Society. Also, gym memberships are utilized by clients to improve physical and mental health as well as improve their perceived social support. Gym memberships, access to swimming pools, and yoga classes are utilized by clients as substitutions for physical therapy and more expensive medical interventions. Additional engagement of clients’ families and friends could broaden the impact of the Financial Assistance Program. Finally, assistance for housing and utilities is a major concern for people living with MS. This program evaluation will inform improvement and expansion of the Financial Assistance Program at the National MS Society, Greater Northwest Chapter and identify areas in which policy efforts from the organization could improve the lives of people living with MS within the Chapter.