Exploring the Learning Needs of Individuals With Inflammatory Arthritis From the Perspectives of Patients, Family Members and Friends, and Health Care Providers: Patient Perspectives (Focus Groups)

Inflammatory arthritis (IA) is a major cause of long-term disability. Due to specialist shortages, failure of primary care providers and individuals to recognize the disease, and lack of awareness of the importance of early intervention, delays to rheumatologic care are common. Peer support models have been used for various health issues and may be one method to assist individuals with early IA to manage their disease and cope with stress. Qualitative research methods (focus groups) will seek out feedback on a peer support approach and explore the learning needs (informational needs, educational preferences) and opinions about emotional and appraisal support of individuals living with IA, from the perspectives of patients. The data will be analyzed and expressed themes (articulated needs and understandings of interviewee context) will guide the future development of a peer support intervention.