Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent chronic inflammatory disease of the Central Nervous System, with numbers in the United States estimated to approximate 1 million. Based on recent studies, the demand for providers will exceed the projected increase in MS specialists by 2035. There is a need to provide optimal training for MS during residency. Currently, the training in Multiple Sclerosis/Neuroimmunology, on a residency level, is poorly defined and is significantly variable. No known studies have investigated MS exposure during residency.

A survey utilizing a secure, web-based platform was provided through direct communication with program directors/coordinators via email. The study runs from Mid-April to December 2022.

A total of 27 programs have responded to date. Responders had an average of 7 residents/ year, and 85% with a comprehensive MS center. 74% have a minimum of 3 MS-trained faculty, 66% have MS fellowships, with most having one fellow/year. Over the last five years, 44% have produced 3-4 graduates who pursued MS as a subspecialty, 33% producing about 1-2, and 11% producing five or more. 

For resident exposure, 56% of the respondents stated that MS/neuroimmunology is a required rotation in their institution. 55% of respondents stated that most of the resident’s exposure is during their Neurology year-in-training 2. 85% of responders agreed that MS should be required rotation for neurology residents. 

Despite the limited preliminary response, the data supports the variability of exposure and training in MS at the residency level. We expect that the data gathered at the end of the study will quantify the gaps in exposure and training of future neurologists in MS and neuroimmunology.