Patient Services Directory

The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MSF) is concerned with the physical, emotional, and social impact on people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their families. MSF strives to ensure the best quality of daily life for those coping with MS through implementation of the following patient services.


National Toll-Free Helpline - since MS affects each individual differently, dedicated caseworkers and peer counselors tailor support to each person's unique needs. Through personal contact, they provide information, referrals, assistance in accessing services, and problem solving. Support is available free of charge via phone, e-mail, written request, and in person. Call our Program Services Department toll-free at 1-888-673-6287 from anywhere in the United States for assistance Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST; or you can contact us at anytime by e-mail: support@msfocus.org.


Internet Helpline - provides live interactive chat one-on-one with a caseworker or peer counselor, offering the same dedicated support as the toll-free helpline. To have your questions answered real-time, access our Live Internet Helpline on any page of this web site (upper right-hand corner under the “Live Help” heading). Available Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.


Internet Forums - the "Ask The Doctor" and "Peer-to-Peer" forums provide an opportunity to have your questions answered by qualified healthcare professionals or by people facing the same challenges as you.


Homecare Assistance Grant Program -This program provides direct support for the use of in-home services including personal care, homemaker companion services, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, transportation services and caregiver respite. The MSF’s Temporary Homecare Assistance Program provides short-term custodial care in the home to encourage independence, facilitate management of all health problems related to MS, and improve functional status and quality of life, when possible. This program also helps to maintain caregiver and other family support mechanisms. MSF has provided hundreds of hours of homecare, respite, and therapy services to those of all ages, with limited or fixed incomes.
- Partially funded through a charitable donation from the Bayer Foundation.


Assistive Technology/Equipment -
The Assistive Technology (AT) program provides direct support for services and devices that increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. This includes aids for daily living, communication devices, computer, home, and vehicle modifications, orthotics, mobility aids, and aids for visual and hearing impairment. Various home modifications, including rails, grab bars, widened doorways and accessible bathrooms have also been provided.
- Partially funded through a charitable donation from the Bayer Foundation.

Computer Grant Program -
Computer Grant Program provides refurbished laptop or desktop computers for individuals with MS on limited or fixed incomes. For those who do not know how to use a computer, training may be provided. The application process requires verification of a diagnosis of MS and a brief essay from the applicant explaining how a computer will enhance their quality of life. A computer, monitor, keyboard and mouse will be granted. Internet access and technical support will be the responsibility of the grant recipient. Applications are accepted year round.


Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAM)-The MSF provides information and education to the MS community about CAM, which is commonly used an adjunct therapy for symptom management, pain relief, and improved physical and emotional health and well-being. The CAM program offers educational materials and referrals, as well as the opportunity to participate in various alternative therapies in a structured setting. Tai chi, yoga, chair yoga, aquatics, massage therapy, and acupuncture have all been offered, free of charge, to MS patients across the country.

Cooling Program - We offer the practical and popular cooling vest, along with brim hats, work collars, skull-pads, wristbands, cooling pillows, and neckties. Our cooling program cycle begins on February 1st and continues through June 1st. All applications are confidential and will be reviewed by the grant committee. Apply online here. Printed applications can be obtained by calling: 1-888-673-6287.
- Partially funded through a charitable donation from the Bayer Foundation


Support Groups - The MSF networks with a wide variety of independent support groups throughout the U.S. These support groups respond to needs, problems, and concerns of the MS population in their community. To locate a support group in your area click above. For further information on starting a support group; or to list your support group in our national directory of independent MS support groups please call our Support Group Coordinator, Helen, at 1-888-673-6287, or contact her by email: helen@msfocus.org.


Lending Library - books, videos, and audiocassettes are available for loan, by mail across the United States. Topics include general MS information, symptom management, diet, nutrition, exercise, alternative therapies, care giving and legal issues. To take advantage of the postage-paid services of this program, or for further information, call our Program Services Department at 1-888-673-6287 or contact us by e-mail: support@msfocus.org.


Men & MS - provides support through the toll-free and Internet helplines to men diagnosed with MS with the unique difficulties they face. To discuss issues that affect men with MS, call our Men & MS Program Coordinator, Jim, at 1-888-673-6287, or contact him by e-mail: msmen@msfocus.org.


We Care, We Call - Would you or someone you know like to receive a friendly call each week, every few days, or once a month? Call 1-888-673-6287 or contact us by e-mail at: support@msfocus.org and sign up to have a volunteer peer counselor call those who want to talk to someone with MS who cares.

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