A qualitative exploration of the patient journey in axial spondyloarthritis towards a people-centered understanding.

ABSTRACT: This exploratory qualitative study aims to gain a people-centered understanding of the patient journey in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 individuals diagnosed with axSpA, aged 18 years and older, who were purposively recruited from a rheumatologic practice in southern Germany. The interviews were carried out as web-based video calls between September and October 2021, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed according to Kuckartz's qualitative content analysis. Patient journey narratives encompassed both healthcare journeys and personal journeys. Healthcare journeys were characterized as fragmented and difficult to navigate, with diagnosis often marking a turning point toward more coordinated care. Post-diagnosis, new challenges

SUBMITTER: Berr K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11358462 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature