The case for MS specialist nurses

Research indicates that each MS specialist nurse saves the NHS over £64,000 every year due to fewer unexpected hospital admissions and bed days taken up. Johnson, J et al (2002) Evaluation of MS nurse specialists: a review and development of the role. Letchworth & London: MS Trust and South Bank University (1)

	Research demonstrates that an avoidable pressure ulcer resulting from poor MS care costs an estimated £10,551 (2)
	MS specialist nurses can reduce GP referrals to acute neurology services, freeing consultant time and increasing potential to meet and improve eighteen-week referral to treatment targets
	MS specialist nurses can reduce actual appointment time for GPs and neurologists
	MS specialist nurses can facilitate timely referral to other services and ensure appropriate discharge planning, which: prevents unplanned, emergency admissions/readmissions prevents bed-blocking reduces referrals to acute neurology services
	MS specialist nurses can increase awareness by other staff of the needs of people with complex disabilities, leading to: fewer inappropriate referrals fewer unplanned and emergency admissions
	MS specialist nurses can ensure compliance with/adherence to the NICE Guidelines on MS and the NSF for Long-term Conditions
	MS specialist nurses can ensure delivery of the MS Risk Sharing Scheme, which is mandatory for all primary, and acute care trusts (HSC 2002/004 – revised 11/06)
	MS specialist nurses can be non-medical prescribers, enabling comprehensive and responsive care for people with MS
	MS specialist nurses have a comprehensive competency framework to enable consistency of quality and expertise across the workforce

If you would like to discuss support available from the MS Society please visit the contact page to get in touch with a local service development officer.