[Obligatory information of patients with rheumatic illness (300 cases)]

Area of Science:

• Medical Law
• Patient Communication
• Rheumatology

Background:

• French legal rulings since 1997 mandate clear patient information, including serious risks.
• The French Society of Rheumatology developed information cards for patient education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate patient comprehension and reception of rheumatology information cards.
• To assess the psychological impact, specifically anxiety, of this patient information.

Main Methods:

• Patient questionnaires were administered after medical examinations.
• The study assessed information effectiveness, comprehension, and anxiety levels.
• Informed consent was obtained from the majority of participants.

Main Results:

• Medical information, particularly oral communication, was well-received and understood.
• Information delivery led to increased patient anxiety.
• Female patients and those with no prior medical procedures reported higher anxiety levels.

Conclusions:

• While patient information is comprehensible, its delivery can induce stress.
• Healthcare providers should address potential anxiety associated with medical information.
• Further research is needed to mitigate anxiety in patient communication.