Sources of evidence

Note: If considering entitlement to H/R Mobility component under the Severely Visually Impaired (SVI) provisions, the following evidence source must be used:

The Consultant Ophthalmologist will be able to provide information about symptoms, signs, investigations including assessment of vision, treatment/management, and is likely to have information about resulting disability or needs.

Other evidence sources

Generally those patients with significant problems arising from their MS will be under the regular care of a hospital; either a neurologist or rehabilitation specialist. In addition they may be provided with specialist services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and sometimes speech therapy. Appointments are commonly every six months or once a year.

Because of the range of severity and frequency of symptoms, it is not possible to infer from just the diagnosis the care and mobility needs of any individual without specific information. Health care professionals involved with the care patients who have significant problems may be better placed than GPs to provide helpful information particularly where the mobility and care needs are not clear.

These health care professionals include:

• Consultant Neurologist
• Specialist Nurse
• Occupational therapist
• Physiotherapist
• General Practitioner
• Day centre leader

Amended April 2011