Multidisciplinary team working in motor neurone disease: patient and family carer views

Abstract

Background: Motor neurone disease (MND) results in systemic disabilities due to progressive muscle weakness. Patients and families affected by the illness will require input from a wide range of health and social care professionals. Evidence for the efficacy of a multidisciplinary team approach to care in MND is limited, with a Cochrane review calling for ‘real life’ research on the topic. The views of patients and family carers have not been dominant in published studies. To ensure that services are meeting their needs it was important to obtain the perspectives of those living with the illness. Aim: To obtain the views of people with MND and family carers regarding multidisciplinary team (MDT) working. Method: A qualitative study involving narrative style interviews was conducted in Northwest England. People with MND (24), family carers (18) and former carers (10) were recruited through an MND Care and Research Centre. Results: A number of themes emerged from a thematic analysis: having a single point of access; specialist knowledge and skills; saving time and energy; regular follow up; valued members of the MDT; working together as a team. Conclusion: The findings greatly enhance our understanding of the effect of MDT working on people with MND and their family carers