An investigation of the explanatory model of venous disease: a pilot study

Communication between provider and client is essential. When there are differences in the understanding of illness, communication suffers and adherence to treatment decreases. A method of extracting the client's understanding of illness is Kleinman's Explanatory Model of illness (EM). This is a qualitative interview technique that is not conducive to the practice setting. This study explores the understanding of venous disease in clients using a semi-structured survey instrument. Thirty one male clients in an upper middle class practice are reported in this pilot study. The disparity in understanding of venous disease has implications for practice and research.