Author(s): MAVROPALIAS, G., BAYNTON, S.L., TEO, S.Y.M., DONKERS, S.J., VAN RENS, F.E.C.A., LEARMONTH, Y.C., Institution: EDITH COWAN UNIVERSITY, Country: AUSTRALIA, Abstract-ID: 1596

INTRODUCTION:
Exercise reduces the severity of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms, and may play a crucial role in overall disease management. When people with MS seek exercise guidance, they approach their allied health professionals (AHPs) [1,2]. We investigated the proficiency, knowledge gaps, and training needs and wants of Australian AHPs in telehealth exercise therapy and behavioral change for people with MS. We focused on identifying the educational needs of AHP to optimise professional development training programs.
METHODS:
We conducted an online survey engaging 58 AHPs, including 34 physiotherapists, 14 exercise physiologists, and 10 occupational therapists, to assess their current telehealth practices, confidence levels, and training preferences related to exercise and behavioral change for MS. The survey, incorporated multiple-choice, Likert scale, and open-ended questions. Responses were analysed through binary and multinomial logistic regression.
RESULTS:
One third of AHPs (33%) displayed a lack of awareness regarding MS exercise guidelines [3], with occupational therapists being the least familiar (60% unfamiliarity). Despite 93% of all AHPs acknowledging the distinction between physical activity and exercise, only 14% could provide accurate and complete definitions. Most AHPs (91%) used physical activity behavioral change strategies, with goal setting being predominant. However, over a quarter (27.6%) of AHPs felt unprepared in promoting exercise to MS clients, with occupational therapists notably the least confident in prescribing and adjusting telehealth exercise programs (90% uncertain). Most AHPs (96.3%) expressed a need for further training, particularly in online self-paced formats, focusing on MS-specific exercise prescription, behavioral change methods, and telehealth delivery techniques.
CONCLUSION:
The study underscores a considerable need for specialised, profession-specific training programs among Australian AHPs, especially to augment confidence and competence in telehealth exercise therapy and behavioral change for MS. Such education, ideally delivered through online workshops, will not only address the knowledge gaps but also align with AHPs preferences for self-paced learning. Furthermore, these programs should be developed with a keen understanding of the AHPs current practice environment and healthcare system, ensuring practical applicability and relevance in their daily professional settings. This approach will significantly contribute to the advancement of telehealth practices in MS care, ensuring a higher standard of patient-centered, evidence-based treatment.

References
[1] Learmonth YC, et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021;18:13245.
[2] Learmonth YC, et al. Health Expect 2017;20:574–83.
[3] Kalb R, et al. Mult Scler 2020;26:1459–69.