Experiences of rheumatoid arthritis patients with digital health technologies in self-management: a qualitative study

Effective self-management in rheumatoid arthritis directly affects treatment, follow-up, and care processes. Individuals with chronic diseases can take an active role in their self-management by accessing healthcare professionals and information resources through digital health technologies. This study was conducted to examine the experiences of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in using digital health technologies in their self-management processes. This study was conducted in a university hospital in southern Türkiye with patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and employed a descriptive qualitative design. This study, data were collected using a "Patient Information Form" and a " Semi-Structured Interview Form". Using purposive sampling, the study was completed with 25 participants. Data were evaluated using thematic analysis. The 32-item Consolidated Criteria Checklist (COREQ) was used in the reporting process of the research. The average age of the participants was 36.4 ± 10.4, and 80% were female. From the analysis of the data, three main themes and seven sub-themes were created: "use of digital health technologies", "digital health technologies in self-management" and "expectations from digital health technologies". This study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis primarily use digital health technologies for accessing information, scheduling appointments, and supporting self-management in daily life. Furthermore, it was observed that patients have significant expectations regarding integrated digital health applications with healthcare professionals to ensure effective self-management. In this sense, it is recommended that digital tools be designed and experimental studies be conducted in this area, taking into account the expectations of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.