One in three miss out on MS nurse care. We’re working to change that.

For people living with multiple sclerosis (MS), an MS nurse can be a lifeline.

They are often the first person someone turns to after diagnosis. They provide trusted information, answer questions between specialist appointments, help people navigate treatment decisions, and offer reassurance when symptoms change unexpectedly.

Yet despite the critical role they play, too many Australians with MS do not have access to this specialist support.

Research commissioned by MS Australia found that almost one in three people living with MS do not have access to MS nurse careopens in new tab. For people living in regional and remote areas, the gap is even greater, with almost half missing out on this essential supportopens in new tab. 

As the number of people diagnosed with MS continues to grow, demand for specialist nursing support is also increasing. Without action, more people risk navigating a complex and unpredictable condition without the guidance they need.

Bridging the gap

At MS Plus, we're working to change those odds.

Over the past year, we expanded our MS nurse team, increasing access to expert care and support for more people living with MS across our communities.

Last year, our MS nurses conducted 1,026 telehealth and in-person consultations, supporting people through diagnosis, treatment decisions, symptom changes and the everyday challenges of living with MS.

For many people, these conversations provide more than clinical guidance. They offer confidence, reassurance and a clear pathway through what can often feel like an overwhelming healthcare system.

Supporting more people, closer to home

The need for better access to coordinated MS care was also highlighted through the MS Plus MS Integrated Care Project, funded by NSW Health and delivered in partnership with Westmead Hospital.

More than 380 people with MS and health professionals from across New South Wales contributed to the project, helping identify gaps in care and opportunities for improvement. One of the strongest findings was the vital role MS nurses play in helping people navigate services, coordinate care and access support. The research also found that access to MS nurses varies significantly depending on clinic location and workforce capacity. 

The resulting MS Integrated Care Framework calls for more connected, person-centred care, with MS nurses recognised as a key part of achieving better health outcomes for people living with MS. 

Looking ahead

But we're not stopping here.

In the year ahead, our MS nurse team is preparing to support 10% more people.

This includes expanding the reach of our online Navigate workshops for people living with MS and their families, ensuring those in regional and remote communities can access trusted information and support regardless of where they live.

Our nurses will also strengthen connections with hospitals and healthcare providers, sharing specialist knowledge and helping improve coordination between the many services involved in a person's care.

Every person diagnosed with MS deserves access to expert support when they need it most.

By continuing to invest in MS nursing services, we can help ensure more Australians receive timely advice, coordinated care and the confidence to navigate life with MS.

Join us in closing the gap

One in three people with MS miss out on access to an MS nurse. Together, we can change that. Support our Christmas Appeal and help more people access expert care, trusted advice and coordinated support throughout their MS journey.

Support MS Nurses: https://donate.msplus.org.au/christmas-appealopens in new tab