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BMC Primary Care
Published in: BMC Primary Care 1/2021

Open Access 01-12-2021 | Research article

Development of an eHealth programme for self-management of persistent physical symptoms: a qualitative study on user needs in general practice

Authors: Mette Trøllund Rask, Pernille Ravn Jakobsen, Jane Clemensen, Marianne Rosendal, Lisbeth Frostholm

Published in: BMC Primary Care | Issue 1/2021

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Abstract

Background

Persistent physical symptoms (PPS) are estimated to be present in 17% of patients in general practice. Hence, general practitioners (GPs) play a key role in both the diagnostic assessment and the management of PPS. However, research indicates a need to improve their strategies to support self-help in patients, and eHealth tools may serve as an opportunity. This study aimed to explore patients’ and GPs’ needs related to self-management of PPS. The study was designed to inform the future development of eHealth interventions in this field.

Methods

This qualitative study was based on 20 semi-structured interviews (6 GPs and 14 patients with PPS). Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed through a five-step thematic analysis approach. First, we conducted an inductive analysis to identify and explore emerging subthemes. Second, using a deductive mapping strategy, we categorised the derived subthemes according to the COM-B behaviour change model and its three domains: capability, opportunity and motivation.

Results

We identified eleven subthemes in the patient interviews and seven subthemes in the GP interviews. Several unmet needs emerged. First, we identified a need to consider PPS early in the illness trajectory by taking a bio-psycho-social approach. Second, both patients and GPs need better skills to manage uncertainty. Third, hope is important for the patients. Fourth, patients need guidance from their GP in how to self-manage their PPS.

Conclusions

This study provides important insight into key issues and needs related to capability, opportunity and motivation that should be addressed in the design of future eHealth self-management interventions targeting patients with PPS in general practice in order to support and improve care.
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Metadata
Title
Development of an eHealth programme for self-management of persistent physical symptoms: a qualitative study on user needs in general practice
Authors
Mette Trøllund Rask
Pernille Ravn Jakobsen
Jane Clemensen
Marianne Rosendal
Lisbeth Frostholm
Publication date
01-12-2021
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Primary Care / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 2731-4553
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-021-01380-5

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