INTRODUCTION OF INTEGRATED CARE PATHWAYS FOR PATIENTS WITH MULTIPLE-SCLEROSIS IN AN INPATIENT NEUROREHABILITATION SETTING

Rehabilitation of progressive neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis poses particular problems, and clear setting of goals and cl inical audit are essential for effective management. Integrated care p athways (ICPs) offer a unique opportunity to document and audit the re habilitation process. This preliminary study has shown that ICPs are u seful in both assessing process and auditing goals. Their introduction has led to the identification of the key worker role within the neuro rehabilitation unit (NRU), and has provided an opportunity to increase the participation of patients and carers in the rehabilitation proces s. Continuing refinement of the pathway is necessary, and its applicat ion to other neurological disorders such as cerebrovascular accident m ay be appropriate.