An evaluation study of a pilot group education programme for inflammatory bowel disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Psychosocial Health
• Patient Education

Background:

• Growing emphasis on patient education in healthcare.
• Limited understanding of disease-related education's impact on psychosocial aspects of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
• Previous studies focused on knowledge and satisfaction, overlooking psychosocial benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a group patient education program on the psychosocial elements of living with IBD.
• To explore qualitative changes in patients' experiences post-education.

Main Methods:

• Conducted eight semistructured qualitative interviews with IBD patients post-education program.
• Utilized purposive sampling for participant recruitment.
• Employed thematic analysis by two independent researchers on transcribed interviews.

Main Results:

• Identified a global theme of 'mastery' among participants.
• Core themes of 'enablement' (increased confidence, control, courage, power) and 'cooperative learning' emerged.
• Cooperative learning highlighted the significant benefit of peer interaction among individuals with IBD.

Conclusions:

• This is the first qualitative study on group patient education in IBD.
• The study reveals novel psychosocial elements not identified in prior quantitative research.
• Group education programs can positively influence the psychosocial well-being of IBD patients.