The project, Next Steps with MS: Implementing 1:1 Nurse-Led Support, addresses a key gap faced by people newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Early after diagnosis, many individuals experience uncertainty, isolation, and difficulty accessing personalised information and support outside of hospital settings.
To respond to this need, MS Ireland developed a pilot service offering one-to-one, nurse-led support sessions delivered virtually via Zoom. These 45-minute sessions provided newly diagnosed individuals with tailored education, emotional support, and clear pathways into MS Ireland services.
Pilot Outcomes
The pilot ran from September to October 2025 and supported ten participants. Early outcomes included:
- 30% referred to MS Ireland physiotherapy services
- 40% enrolled in the FACETS fatigue-management programme
- 10% participated in the Younger Persons Week programme
- 20% signposted to peer support platforms, including Shift.ms and MS Together
Participant satisfaction averaged 9/10, with feedback highlighting the value of early, personalised contact and speaking with a nurse who understands MS.
Next Steps
The success of the pilot demonstrates the feasibility and impact of nurse-led virtual support in the early stages following diagnosis. MS Ireland plans to refine and expand the model, with a larger-scale evaluation planned to assess longer-term benefits for engagement, self-management, and wellbeing.
The project was recognised by the Neurology Academy. Read more about the project here:
Next Steps with MS: Implementing 1:1 Nurse-Led Virtual Support
Congratulations to Sorcha and all involved on this well-deserved recognition.