Patient preferences for psychological support in inflammatory arthritis: A multicentre survey

Dures, Emma; Almeida, Celia; Caesley, Judy; Peterson, Alice; Ambler, Nicholas; Morris, Marianne; Pollock, Jon; Hewlett, Sarah

Abstract

Objectives. Inflammatory arthritis (IA) can lead to anxiety, depression, pain and fatigue. Psychological support can improve quality of life and selfmanagement; and European and American guidelines recommend support be offered. This study examined patient views on psychological support for their IA. Methods. A questionnaire designed by researchers, patient partners and clinicians was administered to 2280 patients with IA. Results. 1210 patients responded (53%): 74% women; mean age 59 years (SD 12.7); patient global 5 (2.3); disease duration 10 (39%). Only 23% reported routinely being asked about social and emotional issues by a rheumatology professional, but 46% would like the opportunity to discuss psychological impact. If offered, 66% of patients reported they would use a self-management/coping clinic (63% pain management, 60% occupational therapy, 48% peer support groups, 46% patient education, 46% psychology/counselling). Patients want support with managing the impact of pain and fatigue (82%), managing emotions (57%), work and leisure (52%), relationships (37%) and depression (34%). Preferences are for support to be delivered by the rheumatology team (nurse 74%, doctor 55%) and general practitioners (GPs) (51%). Only 6% of patients stated that social and emotional issues were not relevant. Conclusions. Demand for psychological support is high; however, less than a quarter of patients reported being asked about social and emotional issues, suggesting a gap between needs and provision. The preference is for delivery from rheumatology clinicians and GPs, and research should establish whether they have the skills and resources to meet patients' needs.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Sep 13, 2014
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2016
• Deposit Date: Sep 14, 2015
• Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
• Print ISSN: 0003-4967
• Electronic ISSN: 1468-2060
• Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 75
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 142-147
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-205636
• Keywords: arthritis, patient support, psychological support
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/915713
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-205636
• Contract Date: Jan 10, 2019