Mapping the Global Landscape of Therapeutic Patient Education and Self-Management Support Programs in Psoriasis: A Qualitative Study
September 2019
in “
Journal of Investigative Dermatology
”
TLDR There are various tools available to help psoriasis patients manage their condition, but their effectiveness is unclear and they face issues like lack of financial support.
In 2019, a qualitative study was conducted to understand the availability of therapeutic patient education (TPE) and self-management support (SMS) tools for psoriasis patients. The study involved 8 interviews with healthcare professionals from various countries. The study found that despite the availability of effective treatments, there was a need to address psychosocial issues. The TPE/SMS tools varied in accessibility, delivery modes, and target populations, but all were multidisciplinary. The aims of these tools also varied, with some aiming to induce behavioral change and others serving as information or training platforms. Major facilitators included 'in-house support' from hospitals, while a significant barrier was the lack of financial support. However, the efficacy of these tools remained uncertain, highlighting the need for further study.