Illustrations of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms to promote communication between patients and physicians

To develop an illustrative tool presenting visualized rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms using pictures to promote better understanding between patients and physicians.

A tool named 'Okomarigoto Sheet' was developed through an internet survey of patients with RA and certified rheumatologists by repeated in-person interviews.

An internet survey on the reality of communication between patients with RA and physicians in 200 patients and 200 certified rheumatologists revealed various local and systemic symptoms of RA and difficulties in sharing those symptoms between patients and physicians during a short consultation. Interviews from patients and certified rheumatologists suggested that illustrations of symptoms would be helpful for better communication between them; therefore, an illustrative tool presenting visualized RA symptoms was drafted. The draft illustrations were refined through multiple rounds of interviews with the patients. The final version of the tool was discussed and evaluated at a joint meeting of patients and rheumatologists.

A picture sheet presenting RA symptoms was developed. Future prospective studies should evaluate the usefulness of the sheet in clinical practice to promote better communication between patients and physicians.