AUTHOR=Freund Magalie , Schiffmann Insa , Rahn Anne Christin , Chard Declan , Lukas Carsten , Scheiderbauer Jutta , Sippel Anna , Heesen Christoph 

TITLE=Understanding Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Multiple Sclerosis (UMIMS): Development and Piloting of an Online Education Program About Magnetic Resonance Imaging for People With Multiple Sclerosis

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Neurology

VOLUME=Volume 13 - 2022

YEAR=2022

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles/10.3389/fneur.2022.856240

DOI=10.3389/fneur.2022.856240

ISSN=1664-2295

ABSTRACT=Background: People with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) lack sufficient magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) knowledge to truly participate in frequently occurring MRI related therapy decisions. An evidence-based patient information (EBPI) about MRI is currently lacking. 
Objective: The aim of this study was to develop an evidence-based online education program about limitations and benefits of MRI for pwMS. Ultimately, our goal was to improve MRI risk-knowledge, empower pwMS and promote shared decision-making. 
Methods: The program’s contents were based on literature research and a previous pilot study. It was revised following 2 evaluation rounds with pwMS, MRI experts and expert patients. In a pilot study n=92 pwMS received access to the program for 4 weeks. User experiences and acceptance, MRI knowledge (MRI-RIKNO 2.0 questionnaire) and emotions and attitudes towards MRI (MRI-EMA questionnaire) were assessed. Results were compared to a previous survey population of n=508 pwMS without access to the program. 
Results: Participants rated the program as easy to understand, interesting, relevant, recommendable and encouraging. In comparison to pwMS without access to the program, MRI risk-knowledge and perceived MRI competence was higher.
Conclusion: Satisfaction with the program and good MRI-risk knowledge after usage demonstrate the need and applicability of EBPI about MRI in MS.