Patient and Healthcare Provider Experience With Rheumatoid Arthritis in Northern Ontario, Canada: A Qualitative...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Public Health
• Medical Education

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common, disabling inflammatory joint disease.
• RA disproportionately affects older adults, females, and Northern Ontario residents.
• This study investigated patient experiences and healthcare provider perspectives in Northern Ontario.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the disease impact on patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Northern Ontario.
• To assess healthcare provider access, satisfaction, and patient experiences.
• To gather educational suggestions for improving rheumatoid arthritis care.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients, family physicians, pharmacists, and rheumatology care providers.
• Reflexive thematic analysis was employed to interpret the interview data.

Main Results:

• Patients highlighted the need for early symptom recognition, self-advocacy, increased rheumatologist access, public education, medication awareness, and pacing physical activities.
• Healthcare providers emphasized their roles in patient education, initiating treatment, curriculum enhancement, and professional collaboration.
• All participants stressed the importance of early intervention by family physicians and pharmacist monitoring of medications.

Conclusions:

• Increased patient and public education regarding rheumatoid arthritis is essential.
• Enhancing rheumatology training in undergraduate and graduate medical curricula, including rotations and continuing education, is recommended.
• Strengthening interprofessional collaboration among healthcare providers is vital for improved patient outcomes.