Abstract
Background: People with multiple sclerosis (MS) have unique needs during a disaster, increasing preparation requirements. The content and patient-level suitability of disaster preparation tools is unknown. This scoping review aimed to determine the range and content of disaster preparation resources that are freely available online and suitable to assist people with MS.
Methods: Resources were identified via the Turning Research Into Practice medical database, Google, and disability-related websites. The included resources were disability specific and have been published since 2017. Resources were inductively analyzed and presented according to the target audience and themes. Findings were compared with stakeholder preferences.
Results: Fifty-nine resources were identified, targeting carers (27.1%), health care professionals (10.2%), and people with disabilities (89.8%). Resource content themes were advanced planning, informing others, practical preparations, and review. Consumer involvement was reported in 2 resources. Stakeholder preferences for disaster preparedness content were not well reflected in the resources.
Conclusions: The review identified online disaster preparedness resources suitable for people with MS and highlighted important gaps. More inclusive resources can be created with consumer involvement in design. Identified themes inform professionals about resources to recommend to patients based on their needs. Health care professionals can aid preparation by addressing resource gaps, particularly regarding health condition management.
