Kym Wansbrough

Introduction: Persons with MS have indicated that healthcare professionals are their preferred source of information on exercise.

Objectives/Aims: Using implementation study design we aimed to determine the effect of an online theoretical and experiential education programme on practitioners’ attitudes towards prescribing exercise to persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods: Physiotherapists and exercise physiologists participated. They received online training and support to deliver a 16-week programme to persons with MS. Data on practitioners’ self-confidence (PSC) and professional quality of life (ProQOL) were collected at baseline (week 0) and post-programme (weeks 1, 17, 52). Implementation data were collected post-programme using a TDF-based questionnaire and questions on behaviour change strategies and programme satisfaction. PSC, ProQOL, and TDF data were analysed using an imputation model for missing data. Effect-size estimates from generalised linear mixed models determined the magnitude of change for each outcome measure.

Results: Of 40 practitioners (20 physiotherapy and 20 exercise physiology) who provided baseline data, 24 completed the theoretical programme, and 16 completed the experiential programme. Self-confidence improved significantly (|βs| ⩾ 1.208, SEs ⩾ 0.223, |ts| ⩾ 5.403, ps < 0.001), with large effect sizes (percentage 234.5%-511.0%). Some TDF-based domains improved, such as beliefs about skills to prescribe. The 15 practitioners who completed all surveys expressed high satisfaction after the programme. The number of practitioners implementing behaviour change strategies increased from 11 to 15.

Conclusion: An online education programme for MS care improved practitioners' self-confidence and beliefs about physical activity, but high attrition suggests healthcare system barriers.