Patients' perspectives on quality of care for chronic hand eczema: A qualitative study

Hand eczema (HE) has a significant impact on patients' quality of life and work-related activities. However, little is known about the patients' perspectives on quality of care for HE.

To evaluate the patient perspective of the HE care process in a tertiary referral center.

Qualitative, semi-structured focus groups were carried out, recorded, transcribed, and analysed using an inductive-deductive thematic approach.

Fifteen patients participated in four focus groups. Time and attention, together with being listened to and understood by the health care professional, were the most important aspects of care for HE mentioned by participants. Other aspects of care that were regarded as important were that diagnoses, causes and follow-up of HE were not always clear to the participant; more psychosocial support was needed, and that participants experienced frequent changes in doctors. Information provided by nurses was valuable, but more individualized advice was needed.

To better meet the needs of patients, more explanation should be given about the causes of HE and the final diagnosis. Besides focusing on the treatment, it is also important to focus on its impact on the patient and options for psychosocial and peer support should be discussed. Furthermore, the beneficial role of the specialized nurse as part of integrated care was emphasized.