What moves the rheumatologist? Unravelling decision making in the referral of systemic sclerosis patients to health professionals: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Well-coordinated multidisciplinary non-pharmacological care is considered to be a cornerstone in the management of patients with systemic sclerosis. However, it has been discovered that unmet information and health care needs are common in patients with SSc. In addition, referrals by rheumatologists do not always correspond with potential treatment goals as identified by health professionals. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the current referral routine of rheumatologists in SSc patients and to identify and explore factors influencing rheumatologists' decisions about referral of SSc patients to health professionals.

Methods

Qualitative semi-structured interviews were held with 13 rheumatologists specializing in SSc management from different hospitals

SUBMITTER: Stocker JK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6649894 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature