[Multiple sclerosis in family practice]

Abstract

Objective: To study the family physician's role in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Design: Descriptive.

Setting: Nederlands Instituut voor Onderzoek van de Gezondheidszorg, Utrecht, The Netherlands.

Method: In the Dutch National survey of morbidity and intervention in general practice, data were collected by 161 general practices throughout the Netherlands (161 family physicians) regarding contacts with patients during three months. These data were examined for contacts which resulted in the diagnosis of MS and for comorbidity.

Results: MS patients (n = 118) had 4.3 encounters per 3 months with their family physician and (or) the practice assistant. In 5 patients MS was diagnosed for the first time. Apart from neurological complaints characteristic of MS the family physician was consulted most frequently for sleeping disorders, urinary tract infections and urine incontinence. One-third of patients depended on social security and 26% had a paid job.

Conclusion: The family physician was consulted relatively frequently by MS patients. Apart from sleeping disorders remarkably few psychic complaints were noted.