Exploring the Characteristics and Preferences for Online Support Groups: Mixed Method Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, disabling, and prevalent disorder. As there is no cure for OA, long-term self-management is paramount. Support groups (SGs) can facilitate self-management among people living with OA. Understanding preferences in design and features of SGs, including online SGs (OSGs), among people with OA can inform future development of SG interventions for this condition.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate health care- and health information-seeking behavior, digital literacy, and preferences for the design of SGs in people with OA. The study also explored the perceived barriers and enablers to being involved in OSGs.

Methods

An online survey study was conducted with a mixed method design (quantitative and qualitati

SUBMITTER: Plinsinga ML 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6918205 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature