Understanding essential aspects of fibromyalgia care through a qualitative study of patient feedback

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common, chronic pain syndrome; however, patients with FM report that providers are often ill-equipped to manage this condition. We created an internal medicine-based FM Clinic to address this void and provide evidence-based, patient-centered FM care. This qualitative study aimed to analyze patient experience in the FM Clinic.

Patients were eligible for this study if they met the American College of Rheumatology 2016 diagnostic criteria for FM, attended at least 2 clinic appointments, and completed at least two Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaires (FIQRs). Eligible patients were interviewed regarding overall experience, helpful clinic features, and areas for improvement. Results were qualitatively analyzed to identify themes.

Fifty-six patients met inclusion criteria and were interviewed. Four overarching themes were identified: (1) prior negative healthcare experiences, (2) appreciation for safe spaces, (3) identification of clinic features that optimized FM care, and (4) areas for improvement.

Current patient perspectives regarding FM care delivery models are limited and focused on non-pharmacologic group-based interventions. This study is the first to explore patient perspectives on an individualized care delivery model.

This study identifies patient-valued elements of FM care that can inform the development of similar care models or FM care provided in other clinical settings.