Support needs of gout patients and suitability of eHealth to address these needs

• Published in: Rheumatology advances in practice 2024, Vol.8 (4), p.rkae125
• Main Authors: van der Ven, Jeffrey, van den Bemt, Bart J F, Ariaans, Floor, Vriezekolk, Johanna E, Flendrie, Marcel, Verhoef, Lise M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Original
• ISSN: 2514-1775; 2514-1775
• DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkae125

Abstract Objectives To investigate the support needs of patients with gout regarding information, communication, treatment and disease monitoring, and patients’ views on and preferences for eHealth applications to address these needs. Methods A focus group study using purposive sampling was conducted. Three focus group sessions with a duration of 2 h per group were held with in total of 23 patients using urate-lowering therapy, recruited from primary and secondary care. Audio recordings were transcribed, and data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Eight themes were identified. Five themes addressed support needs of gout patients and suitability of eHealth in addressing those needs: (1) Timely access to healthcare, especially during flares; (2) (personalized) information regarding diagnosis, medication, and diet; (3) insight into uric acid levels and medication side effects through blood monitoring; (4) better coordination across primary and secondary care; and (5) self-management and shared responsibility over care for maintaining health. Three themes addressed eHealth in general: (1) receptive towards eHealth in gout care; (2) the preference for eHealth to have a complementary role (i.e. not replacing face-to-face) contact with healthcare providers; and (3) preferences on eHealth use and functionalities. Conclusion Patients expressed various needs regarding their disease management and projected a supporting role for eHealth in (self)management of gout. Addressing the needs and preferences of patients could enhance their understanding of the disease and treatment, self-management, and possibly health outcomes. Lay Summary What does this mean for patients? Gout is a common inflammatory arthritis that, if untreated, can cause severe pain, redness, swelling, and mobility issues. Despite being common, gout care sometimes falls short for patients. Enhancing gout care is crucial to alleviate the burden on people with gout. By understanding the needs of gout patients during treatment, care can become more patient-centered and effective. The use of digital technology to support or improve health and healthcare (eHealth) is a promising way to support gout patients and empower them during treatment. We conducted three group meetings with 23 people with gout using long-term medication to understand their needs for information, communication, and monitoring during treatment. We also explored their views on the suitability of eHealth in gout care. Particip