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In order to take part in the FINDeRS-MS study, participants must first enroll in the TONiC study. So what is TONiC?
TONiC is an ongoing national study examining the factors that influence quality of life in patients with neurological conditions. It is one of the largest studies on quality of life in neurological conditions ever performed in the UK.
We hope that TONiC will have a significant and positive impact on the lives of all patients that suffer from neurological diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Motor Neurone disease, regardless of symptoms, stage of illness, age or social status.
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TONiC is based at the Walton Centre Foundation Trust in Liverpool, UK.
Researchers can log into the The TONiC Portal here.
Phase 1 of the TONiC study began with individual interviews and discussion groups with people who have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone disease (MND) and certain spinal conditions. We continue interviews and focus groups to gain insight from our participants. TONiC may also involve other neurological conditions such as stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI) at a later stage.
Phase 1 also incorporated the Professionals’ Forum. The input and expertise from the healthcare professionals involved in this shaped the following patient-directed stages.
In Phase 2, study participants consent to have their basic details stored and for a neurologist to confirm the details of their diagnosis and treatment. They also agree to be approached for the next phase of the study.
In Phase 3, participants consent to receive a comprehensive questionnaire pack to complete at home and return by post.
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Phase 3 provides what is called cross-sectional data, you can think of it as a photo showing what was happening at that time.
Linking cross-sectional data to LONGITUDINAL data provides invaluable insights into what changes and why, giving clues about what could be done to improve outcomes for people. You could think of it like a series of photographs which show how something changed over time.
Please see more about our LONGITUDINAL STUDY: PHASE 4, by clicking on the boxes below.
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