Supporting successful recruitment in a randomized control trial comparing clinic and home-based exercise among adults with multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Plain English language The Tele Exercise and Multiple Sclerosis (TEAMS) study has been able to successfully screen over 1700 people with multiple sclerosis (MS) across three southern states (Alabama, Mississippi, Tenessee) largely due to the advice and input that the research team received from a stakeholder panel, clinic partners and community organizations. These groups met before the study was submitted for funding to the Patient-Centered Outcome Research Institute (PCORI), and was awarded in 2017. These engagement stages and framework established early in the study process were instrumental in generating strong enthusiasm for the study among various MS constituency groups. The feedback from our stakeholders, clinic partners, and community organizations led to the creation of a variety of recruitment methods (print material, email, social media, attendance at events, and health fairs) to connect with potential participants in a setting convenient within each location. In approximately 26 months, the study enrolled 837 participants with MS and baseline tested 759 individuals who participated in a rehabilitative exercise program at either a clinic site or in their home using a tablet that they were given (and kept) which included a set of preloaded videos. All milestones established by PCORI and research staff were met, leading to the largest exercise trail ever conducted with people with MS.

Keywords

• Multiple sclerosis
• Telerehabilitation
• Tele-exercise
• Remote exercise
• Complementary alternative medicine
• Engagement