Improving gout education from patients' perspectives: a focus group study of Māori and Pākehā people with gout

INTRODUCTION Gout is a common form of arthritis that is typically managed in primary care. Gout management guidelines emphasise patient education for successful treatment outcomes, but there is limited literature about the educational experiences of people living with gout in New Zealand, particularly for Māori, who have higher gout prevalence and worse gout outcomes than Pākehā. AIM To explore gout patient education in primary care from the perspectives of Māori and Pākehā people with gout. METHODS In total, 69 people with gout were recruited through primary care providers in three locations across New Zealand. Nine semi-structured focus groups were run with Māori and Pākehā participants in separate groups. RESULTS Thematic analysis yielded two themes in relation to gout education: (i) 'Multiple sources of gout education'; and (ii) 'Gaps in gout knowledge'. Participants received education from general practitioners, educational resources, family and friends, and their own experiences. Māori participants preferred information to be kanohi-ki-te-kanohi (face-to-face) and with significant others present where necessary. Participants disclosed gaps in gout's epidemiology and management. Pākehā and Māori participants reported limited understanding of the genetic basis of gout or the biological underpinnings of the condition and its treatments, but learned treatment adherence through experience. DISCUSSION Despite improved gout patient education, knowledge gaps remain and may contribute to poor medication adherence. Gout patient education interventions need to be tailored to culture and incorporate suitable methods of disseminating information about gout management.