Objective:

To examine the utilization of VISIBL-MS to increase MS awareness in rural populations.  

Background:

Rural community awareness for MS and provider knowledge is low, neurologist access is difficulty leading to delays in diagnosis, treatment and early disability for rural residents. VISIBL-MS is an open access bilingual tool that presents the CIS symptoms in plain language to increase non-neurologist awareness

Design/Methods:

Since July 2024, The Institute for Public Health Innovation (IPHI) partnered with organizations delivering health services to populations at risk in rural areas to distribute VISIBL-MS in rural counties of Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia  and West Virginia. The implementation steps included 1) Demonstration of VISIBL-MS for partners 2) Training, material distribution to community and health events 3) Ongoing written feedback from the community partners about the tool

Results:

Prior to the utilization of VISIBL, an attempt to utilize 1-page infographic about MS  was unsuccessful. All partners distributed VISIBL-MS and delivered training to  staff on utilization of the tool during Fall 2024 and Spring 2025. in total VISIBL-MS has been distributed to 223 rural health clinics, patient associations, support groups, health education centers, and health departments. Additionally, project staff distributed VISIBL-MS and exhibited at rural community events and conferences. In total, the VISIBL-MS tool has been distributed in 32 rural counties affecting 3.5 million rural inhabitants and 15000 possible cases of based on MS prevalence.

Conclusions:

Feedback from end user has been positive and includes, VISIBL-MS is simple and quick to read with clear instructions useful tool to educate and screen people at risk for MS. Helpful visuals and evidence-base increases trust in utilization. There is a need of Integrating VISIBL-MS into existing staff workflows. To develop referral processes based on the identification of people at risk. This implementation study supports the continuing implementation of VISIBL-MS for increasing awareness for MS in rural populations