Program Background

People with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) who live in regional and remote locations across Australia have limited access to healthcare services and education. It is well documented that regional and remote patients have significantly poorer health outcomes than their metropolitan counterparts (AIHW 2023).

The Regional Education Access and Collaborative Healthcare for people with Multiple Sclerosis (REACH-MS) program aims to provide health education via digital technology (email newsletters and webinars) to overcome barriers such as geographical distance and accessibility for this patient population who often have reduced mobility.

Program Goals

The primary aim of this project is to build capacity in people with MS through increasing their health knowledge and literacy about multiple sclerosis. By providing accurate and current information on the disease, symptoms, management of MS, and available health services, the program aims to empower individuals to seek appropriate medical care and make informed decisions around their treatment and lifestyle.

Research Study

The REACH-MS program also includes a research component that aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the educational interventions in improving health literacy among participants. We will use the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ) before and after the 12-month program to measure any changes in health literacy.

Who Can Participate?

The program is designed for:

• Adults who have been diagnosed with MS
• People living in regional and remote areas of Australia (determined by postcode)

Program Components