Support needs and preferences for people with multiple sclerosis: a rapid review protocol

INTRODUCTION: People with multiple sclerosis (MS) live with a progressive condition that can result in complex disability support needs. Consequently, they may require specialised care and assistive technology to maintain independence at home. It is essential to develop an understanding of the support needs and preferences of people with MS to maintain independence and enhance their quality of life.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The principles of a systematic review framework are incorporated into our rapid review. As such, a reference group was recruited at the project's outset, shaping the research question and study design, followed by developing a thorough listing of search terms. We then adapted the methodology in line with recommendations for conducting a rapid review whereby only three databases were included: MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid) and PsycINFO (Ovid). Data from qualitative and mixed-method studies will be extracted, coded and classified using content analysis. In addition to including peer-reviewed articles, we will examine grey literature sourced from MS-specific organisations and research centres. Grey literature content that has the potential to inform practice will be extracted and categorised. Collectively, themes will be identified from the analysed literature, with a subsequent evaluation conducted by our reference group. The inclusion criteria assert that all documentation must be published in English from 2010 onwards, specifically focusing on people with MS.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This rapid review does not require ethics approval. Findings will be circulated to our reference group and then published in peer-reviewed journals or presented at conferences.