Celebrating our 20th MS MasterClass project winners

The second module of our MS Advanced MasterClass 20 in November offered an engaging and thought-provoking programme, shaped by the evolving challenges faced by senior clinicians and healthcare teams in MS care. Delegates shared insights into their journeys, grappling with the practicalities of balancing ambitious service development projects alongside demanding clinical roles.

Leadership and mentorship emerged as crucial themes, with Prof Gabriele De Luca’s session sparking a vital conversation about the lack of formal mentorship in neurology and its role in empowering clinicians to drive change effectively.

“Excellent to help us understand what under our good leader and why we may struggle with the whole team adopting new change.”

“Gifted speaker. I was able to realise a couple of things about my leadership style and what to improve on so I can influence others.”

“It was very enlightening and helped me gain perspective and step back from the chaos. This session inspired me to go back and do things differently."

Delegate feedback

The event also delved into timely topics like the transformation of MS services, with Sue Thomas highlighting the urgent need to move care closer to home while navigating ongoing funding challenges. Women’s health was another standout focus, with a session addressing key stages in a woman’s life – fertility, pregnancy and menopause – and the upskilling required to better support patients through these transitions.

The second day took on a more advanced lens, exploring employment barriers, symptom management in complex MS, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding assisted dying, offering a unique and holistic approach to the multifaceted realities of MS care.

“Very relevant and in-depth, with lots of useful information to take back to the team.”

“Excellent and relevant to specialists, it covered broad aspects of the holistic approach to dealing with patients with advanced MS and complex needs.”
Delegate feedback

Our delegates showcased a range of innovative workplace projects during their presentations, each addressing critical challenges in MS care. These projects, undertaken between modules, highlighted practical approaches to improving patient outcomes and streamlining services.

Conor Hughes, clinical fellow at Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, won first place for his project on improving the delivery of siponimod therapy for patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) in Northern Ireland. His project evaluated the current service, highlighting the complexity of siponimod’s initiation process due to extensive safety screenings and multidisciplinary approval. Findings revealed that while baseline safety monitoring was adhered to, follow-up monitoring at critical intervals could be improved, and delays in commencing therapy often spanned 1.5 to 2 years. Conor identified opportunities to streamline this process, proposing a “one-stop clinic” to complete safety screening and reduce waiting times. His insights into patient preferences, particularly concerns around side effects, and the reasons for discontinuation are paving the way for a more patient-centered and efficient approach to SPMS care.

The runners-up were Grace Riley, who audited MHRA monitoring compliance for natalizumab patients at Gloucestershire Hospitals, and Deva Chamali Karunathilaka, who introduced an MS pharmacist role at Chase Farm Hospital, significantly reducing patient waiting times and improving service efficiency.

Congratulations to the three finalists, and well done to all delegates of our 20th MS MasterClass for their dedication to advancing MS care through innovative and impactful projects. You can find all the posters now on our website’s project section.

“Really good way of seeing what others are doing and highlighting that others are experiencing the same issues as you. Great networking opportunity.”

Delegate feedback

Our 2025 MS MasterClasses are now open for registration! If you’re looking to take your MS expertise to the next level in 2025, be sure to apply early to secure your place.