Article

OBJECTIVE: To explore patients' and health professionals' views of outpatient
rehabilitation services for patients with rheumatoid arthritis in 3 different
rheumatology sites across Europe. METHODS: A qualitative multi-method study was
conducted with patients and health professionals in Vienna (Austria), Gothenburg
(Sweden) and Leeds (UK). Data collection was carried out during focus groups with
patients and health professionals. Patients' hospital records were integrated
into the analysis. Data were analysed for site and findings were compared across
sites. RESULTS: A total of 20 patients and 20 health professionals participated
in 12 focus groups. Although the 3 sites were all publicly funded university
clinics, there were differences between sites regarding the structure and content
of rehabilitation services. The themes that emerged in the focus groups were:
referrals; continuity in rehabilitation; information provided to patients;
patients' organizations; documentation and communication amongst health
professionals; interface between primary and specialist care; and prescription
practices. Most themes were addressed at all 3 sites, but there were variations
in the specifics within themes. CONCLUSION: Integration of patients' and health
professionals' views on how rehabilitation services are coordinated and how
(parts of) processes are set up elsewhere provide valuable information for the
further optimization of rehabilitation services.

Langue : ANGLAIS