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Opioid-Related Transition Experiences of Patients With Rheumatic Disease: A Qualitative Study
Lisa Carnago1,2, Tolu O Oyesanya1, Jamie Lim2
1Duke University, School of Nursing.
Arthritis Care & Research
|August 5, 2026
Summary
Patients with rheumatic disease (RD) face complex opioid-related transitions (OrTs) across providers and settings. Improving care coordination is crucial for better pain management and outcomes during these challenging experiences.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pain Management
- Qualitative Health Research
Background:
- Opioid use is common in rheumatic disease (RD) management.
- Transitions in opioid therapy can be challenging for patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe patient experiences with opioid-related transitions (OrTs) in RD.
- To identify modifiable gaps in care for improved pain management.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative descriptive study.
- 20 participants with RD using opioids in the past year.
- Semi-structured interviews analyzed via conventional content analysis.
Main Results:
- Four themes emerged: managing together/deciding alone, turbulence of medication changes, transitions across prescribers, and transitions across care settings.
- Patients reported challenges with decision-making, medication access, and navigating care.
- Subthemes included clinician guidance, family involvement, self-management, risk reduction, dynamic regimens, disrupted access, prescriber changes, and care setting shifts.
Conclusions:
- Patients with RD frequently experience complex OrTs.
- These transitions involve risks, patient burden, and suboptimal outcomes.
- Improved care coordination and innovative support are needed.
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