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Making sense of symptoms, clinicians and systems: a qualitative evaluation of a facilitated support group for patients with medically unexplained symptoms.
- Source :
- BMC Family Practice; 7/1/2021, Vol. 22 Issue 1, p1-9, 9p
- Publication Year :
- 2021
-
Abstract
- Objectives: Health services to date have inadequately addressed the physical and mental health needs of patients with medically unexplained symptoms. This qualitative study evaluates a piloted facilitated support group (FSG) developed for patients with medically unexplained symptoms to inform recommendations and resources for this patient population. Methods: Using a qualitative descriptive design, we conducted and thematically analyzed semi-structured interviews with participants (n = 8) and facilitators (n = 4) to explore their experiences of the facilitated support group. Common themes that captured strengths and challenges of the facilitated support group were identified. Results: The following key themes were identified through analysis of the data: Participants described 1) feeling validated through sharing similar experiences with peers; 2) learning practical symptom management and coping strategies; and 3) gaining new perspectives for navigating conversations with PCPs. Conclusions: Our findings show that a facilitated support group may provide additional forms of support and resources for patients with medically unexplained symptoms, filling a gap in currently available clinical care offered by health care professionals. Potential implications: This paper highlights lessons learned that can inform the design and delivery of future supports and resources directed toward optimizing patient care for this underserved patient population. Our findings are relevant to those who are involved in direct patient care or involved in designing and implementing self-management programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Subjects :
- AFFINITY groups
PILOT projects
SOCIAL support
RESEARCH methodology
SELF-management (Psychology)
INTERVIEWING
PATIENTS' attitudes
QUALITATIVE research
HUMAN services programs
SUPPORT groups
MEDICALLY unexplained symptoms
INFORMATION resources
COMMUNICATION
PATIENT-professional relations
THEMATIC analysis
PSYCHOLOGICAL adaptation
MEDICAL needs assessment
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 14712296
- Volume :
- 22
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- BMC Family Practice
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 151207659
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-021-01495-9