Physician and patient treatment decision-making in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in Europe and the USA

Abstract

Objective: To assess factors used in treatment decision-making for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in both the 5EU (UK/Germany/France/Italy/Spain) and the USA.

Methods: Data were abstracted from the Ipsos Healthcare Global Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Monitor (data abstracted September-December, 2015-2017) a bi-annual online chart-review study of patients with multiple sclerosis.

Results: Treatment choices were primarily due to efficacy for relapses while convenience factors, other than oral administration, were uncommon. Predominantly, the choice of disease modifying therapy at first line was jointly made, with patient involvement decreasing at later lines of treatment.

Conclusion: Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients are highly engaged in their treatment decisions, particularly early in the pathway. The majority were made jointly between the physician and patient, driven by efficacy.

Keywords: RRMS; decision-making; efficacy; patient engagement; relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.