Patient Education in axSpA: Perception Matters

In the first qualitative study of patient education needs and experiences among people with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), researchers concluded that the patients’ own perceptions must be considered in developing effective education. Their findings were published in Rheumatology and Therapy.

“A phenomenological approach was used, with semi-structured in-depth interviews with patients with axSpA including broad variation in characteristics. Thematic analysis was applied,” the authors stated. “To enhance credibility, data saturation, research triangulation, peer debriefing, member checking, theoretical notes, and bracketing were performed.”

The study revealed that illness perception, content, and ‘availability’ were key themes about patient education that were identified from 20 interviews. “Illness perception affects how patients experience and process PE [patient education], which consequently influences coping strategies. Prognosis, treatment, and coaching to self-management were identified as the most important content of PE. Regarding ‘availability’, face-to-face PE is preferred for exploring needs, supplemented by self-education, which can be freely applied,” the investigators wrote.

Patients also emphasized the importance of having sufficient time with health care providers and “a comprehensible amount of information were important.” Further, participants reported that having a trusting relationship with their health care provider and effective multidisciplinary cooperation and communication between their health care team members were prerequisites for effective patient education.

Reference:

van der Kraan YM, Paap D, Lennips N, et al. Patients’ needs concerning patient education in axial spondyloarthritis: a qualitative study. Rheumatol Ther. 2023;10:1349–1368

https://doi.org/10.1007/s40744-023-00585-7