1
|
Engström L. Controlling the Diabetic Body? Managing Chronic Illness with Wearable Technology. Med Anthropol 2024; 43:522-537. [PMID: 39072586 DOI: 10.1080/01459740.2024.2384749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
I explore the experience of managing type 1 diabetes with wearable technology. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic illness which requires continuous maintenance to keep the blood glucose levels within range. Using autoethnography, I investigate both the practices of translating information from technology and from senses, and also from health authorities, into practices. I conclude that the management of type 1 diabetes is informed by an urge to control the body, but this situation can be understood otherwise from a logic of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Engström
- Department of Arts and Cultural Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kemp E, Sillence E, Thomas L. Information work and digital support during the perinatal period: Perspectives of mothers and healthcare professionals. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2024; 3:e0000387. [PMID: 39150902 PMCID: PMC11329105 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024]
Abstract
During pregnancy and early motherhood, the perinatal period, women use a variety of resources including digital resources to support social interactions, information seeking and health monitoring. While previous studies have investigated specific timepoints, this study takes a more holistic approach to understand how information needs and resources change over the perinatal period. Furthermore, we include the perspective of maternity healthcare professionals to better understand the relationship between different stakeholders in the information work of perinatal women. A total of 25 interviews with 10 UK based mothers and 5 healthcare professionals (3 Midwives and 2 Health visitors) were conducted. Perinatal women were asked about their information and support needs throughout pregnancy and the postnatal period, healthcare professionals were asked about information and support provision to perinatal women. Information work activities were grouped along stages of the perinatal timeline from pre-pregnancy to the postanal period to illustrate the work and perspectives of the women and the healthcare professionals. Information work varies considerably over the timeline of the perinatal period, shifting back and forth in focus between mother and baby. information work during this period consists of many information related activities including seeking, monitoring, recording, questioning, sharing and checking. The importance of the HCPs as stakeholders in this work is notable as is the digital support for information work. Importantly, paper-based resources are still an important shared resource allowing reflection and supporting communication. Information work for women varies across the perinatal timeline. Particular challenges exist at key transition points, and we suggest design considerations for more integrated digital resources that support information work focused on mother and baby to enhance communication between perinatal women and healthcare professionals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Kemp
- School of Psychology, Sheffield University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Sillence
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Thomas
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Walker L, Sillence E. Examining Healthcare Professionals' Communication Around Decision-Making with Internet-Informed Patients. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1094-1101. [PMID: 37150845 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2204580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
In the last ten years the use of the internet as a health resource has transformed, and while patients increasingly consult online resources for health decision-making, less is known about how healthcare professionals (HCPs) currently discuss decision-making with internet informed patients (IIPs). In this paper we examine how HCPs perceive IIPs and specifically how bringing online information into appointments can prompt different communicative strategies around decision-making. Ten HCPs with experience working across different healthcare roles, took part in semi-structured interviews and discussed their interactions with IIPs around decision-making. Vignettes based on descriptions of real patients bringing online health information to their HCPs were used to prompt further discussion. The analysis identified two themes in relation to communication: (i) being honest about information sources and (ii) from compliance to co-construction: improving communication around decision-making. HCPs were overwhelmingly positive toward IIPs and encouraged patients to be transparent about their online searching to understand their motivations, priorities, and concerns. Although compliance remains part of the narrative, HCPs recognized practical ways in which discussing online health information could improve HCP-patient communication around shared decision-making. We discuss the findings in relation to early work on communicative strategies between HCP's and patients bringing resources to their consultations. We argue that for HCPs the concept of the internet as a provider of health information is no longer seen as inherently damaging or risky. There is growing acceptance of pre-consultation internet searching with the caveat that any information sourced online should inform rather than dictate decision-making with HCPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Walker
- School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Law, Teesside University
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
El Sherif R, Pluye P, Paquet V, Ibekwe F, Grad R. How People Use Web-Based Parenting Information to Support Others in Their Social Circle: Qualitative Descriptive Study. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2023; 6:e40043. [PMID: 37115603 PMCID: PMC10182472 DOI: 10.2196/40043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost two-thirds of the North American population have searched for health information on the web, and the majority report searching on behalf of someone else in their social circle, a phenomenon referred to as proxy seeking. Little is known about how proxy seekers use web-based health information and the outcomes they experience. OBJECTIVE The main aim of this study was to explore why proxy seekers used a parenting website on behalf of parents in their social circle and the outcomes they reported. METHODS A qualitative descriptive study was conducted in the context of a partnership with a web-based parenting resource to explore the contexts and motivations for proxy web-based health information seeking, use of information, and subsequent outcomes. A total of 14 participants who self-identified as family members, friends of parents of young children, or professionals who worked with young children were interviewed, and a thematic analysis was conducted. RESULTS The following 4 reasons for proxy seeking were uncovered: for reassurance, out of personal curiosity, as part of a professional role, or following an explicit request from the parents. Information was used to provide informational support for parents or material support for a child. Positive outcomes of using the information and some of the resulting interpersonal tensions were described. CONCLUSIONS This study provides an in-depth look at proxy seeking behavior and outcomes among users of a web-based parenting resource.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reem El Sherif
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre Pluye
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Virginie Paquet
- Health Sciences Library, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Fidelia Ibekwe
- School of Journalism & Communication, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Roland Grad
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
El Sherif R, Pluye P, Ibekwe F. Contexts and Outcomes of Proxy Online Health Information Seeking: Mixed Studies Review With Framework Synthesis. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e34345. [PMID: 35749210 PMCID: PMC9270707 DOI: 10.2196/34345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background High-quality online health information (OHI) can reduce unnecessary visits to health professionals and improve health. One of the ways that people use OHI is to support others with health conditions through proxy OHI seeking. Members of a person’s social circle may help them overcome information-seeking barriers and illness challenges. There are several models on proxy information seeking. Yet, we know little about the use and outcomes of OHI on behalf of someone else. Objective The objectives of this paper are to explore and revise a framework on the context and outcomes of proxy OHI seeking Methods We conducted a mixed studies literature review integrating qualitative and quantitative evidence with thematic analysis of the findings of 28 studies, followed by framework synthesis incorporating the derived themes. Results We explored 4 main themes: (1) characteristics of proxy seekers, (2) context of proxy OHI seeking, (3) use of OHI to provide social support, and (4) outcomes of proxy OHI seeking. Our conceptual framework incorporates these themes and builds on previous work. Conclusions By better understanding how people use information together, information providers can adapt the information to meet all users’ needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reem El Sherif
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre Pluye
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Fidelia Ibekwe
- School of Journalism & Communication, Aix-Marseille University, Aix-en-Provence, France
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Parkinson A, Brunoro C, Leayr J, Fanning V, Chisholm K, Drew J, Desborough J, Phillips C. Intertwined like a double helix: A meta-synthesis of the qualitative literature examining the experiences of living with someone with multiple sclerosis. Health Expect 2022; 25:803-822. [PMID: 35118764 PMCID: PMC9122458 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic serious condition of uncertain course and outcome. There is relatively little literature on the experiences of people who live with a person with MS. They inhabit a locus of care that spans caring for (a relational act) and caring about (a moral stance, addressing fairness, compassion and justice) the person with MS. Methods Using the theoretical lens of personhood, we undertook a scoping review and meta‐synthesis of the qualitative literature on the experiences of people who live with a person with MS, focusing on the nature of, and constraints upon, caring. Results Of 330 articles, 49 were included in the review. We identified five themes. One of these—seeking information and support—reflects the political economy of care. Two are concerned with the moral domain of care: caring as labour and living with uncertainty. The final two themes—changing identities and adapting to life with a person with MS—point to the negotiation and reconstitution of personhood for both the person with MS and the people they live with. Conclusion People with MS are embedded in relational social networks of partners, family and friends, which are fundamental in the support of their personhood; the people who live with them are ‘co‐constituents of the patient's identity’ assisting them to make sense of their world and self in times of disruption due to illness. Support services and health care professionals caring for people with MS are currently very much patient‐centred; young people in particular report that their roles are elided in the health system's interaction with a parent with MS. There is a need to look beyond the person with MS and recognize the relational network of people who surround them and broaden their focus to encompass this network. Patient and Public Involvement Our research team includes four members with MS and two members with lived experience of living or working with people with MS. A third person (not a team member) who lives with a partner with MS provided feedback on the paper.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Parkinson
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Crystal Brunoro
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Jack Leayr
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Vanessa Fanning
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Katrina Chisholm
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Janet Drew
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | - Jane Desborough
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Australian National University, Acton, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
‘You’d think they’d know’: social epistemology and informal carers of mental health service users. SOCIAL THEORY & HEALTH 2021. [DOI: 10.1057/s41285-021-00172-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
8
|
Rahn AC, Solari A, Beckerman H, Nicholas R, Wilkie D, Heesen C, Giordano A. "I Will Respect the Autonomy of My Patient": A Scoping Review of Shared Decision Making in Multiple Sclerosis. Int J MS Care 2021; 22:285-293. [PMID: 33424485 DOI: 10.7224/1537-2073.2020-027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Patient autonomy is a bioethical principle that was strengthened in the revised Declaration of Geneva. Shared decision making (SDM) is particularly relevant in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS) because many preference-sensitive decisions have to be made during the disease course. We aimed to summarize the available evidence on SDM in the MS field and to inform future research and practice. Methods We performed a scoping review by searching MEDLINE (past 5 years). Studies were included if they reported primary/secondary research and focused on SDM related to people with MS. Data were grouped into topics, with results presented in narrative form. Results From 865 references, we included 55 studies conducted mostly in Europe. Half of the studies were observational, followed by qualitative (20%), mixed-methods (17%), randomized controlled trials (RCTs, 5%), quasi-experimental (5%), and reviews (4%). Most studies addressed people with relapsing-remitting MS (85%); the remaining addressed health care professionals, patients' significant others, or a combination. We identified five main topics: decisions on disease-modifying drugs, decisions on chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency treatment, information provision and patient education, health literacy, and risk knowledge. Conclusions The high proportion of included studies on SDM in MS in Europe suggests an earlier adoption of these concepts in this area. Decisions on disease-modifying drugs was the prevalent topic. Only 5% of studies were RCTs, indicating that more research is needed to study the effectiveness of SDM interventions. Studies addressing people with primary and secondary progressive MS are also needed.
Collapse
|
9
|
Will CM, Henwood F, Weiner K, Williams R. Negotiating the practical ethics of 'self-tracking' in intimate relationships: Looking for care in healthy living. Soc Sci Med 2020; 266:113301. [PMID: 32937285 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In this paper, we offer insights into practices of tracking as part of healthy living through talk about home blood pressure and weight from adults living in the UK. Drawing on theoretical resources from feminist ethics of care and Science and Technology Studies on care as socio-material practice, we build on interest in the relational dimensions of tracking and the potential for intimate surveillance and care using monitoring technologies. Our cases offer not only new perspectives in a field that has often focused on fitness tracking but also help go beyond a narrow focus on surveillance, showing how surveillance and care may be intertwined in the everyday negotiation of health-related tracking and other 'health practices' in family life. Using the diversity in our relatively large sample, and reflecting on the different types of interview completed, we highlight the varied ways in which adults engage with tracking blood pressure and weight (or body mass index) in the context of established relationships. The combination of attentiveness and appeals to responsibility for maintaining health as something owed to a partner can make tracking a very ethically sensitive area. In this paper we emphasise that reciprocity is one important way in which couples make tracking feel more like care. Tracking together or discussing it can take couples in this direction even if the actual practice remains somewhat difficult. On the other hand, responsiveness to someone else's feelings, including a desire to avoid the topic altogether, or avoid weight as a specific parameter, might all help move towards more caring tracking. We therefore develop a more sustained account of care in relation to tracking than in previous work, and a novel account of tracking as a (potential) care practice between adult partners.
Collapse
|
10
|
Brignon M, Vioulac C, Boujut E, Delannoy C, Beauvais C, Kivits J, Poivret D, Giraudet Le Quintrec JS, Untas A, Rat AC. Patients and relatives coping with inflammatory arthritis: Care teamwork. Health Expect 2019; 23:137-147. [PMID: 31774612 PMCID: PMC6978873 DOI: 10.1111/hex.12982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore how patients and relatives experience and talk together about their life with inflammatory arthritis. Design Qualitative research. Setting A convenience sample was used. Participants were recruited in seven rheumatology departments in France. Participants Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthritis, agreeing to participate in the study with a relative, age at least 18 years. Data collection and analysis Two psychologists conducted face‐to‐face interviews with 20 patient‐relative dyads (40 individuals). A thematic analysis followed a general inductive approach. Results Saturation was reached after interviews with 20 dyads. The analysis revealed four main themes: (a) disease ‘lived’ together: a new role for the relative (providing help in physical tasks, emotional support, acting as a driving force, having a role in medical care) and communication around the disease (not focusing on the disease); (b) impact of the disease on the relationship; (c) social impact of the disease on the dyad (social isolation); (d) difficulties and needs of the relative (need to better know the disease). Conclusion This study has highlighted the importance of recognizing the role of the relative in the management of inflammatory arthritis disease, especially when medical decisions are shared with professionals. A joint approach to treatment is a basis for coping with the disease. This approach supposes (a) discussions about relatives’ new roles to clarify them, (b) patients’ and relatives’ communication skills and (c) a good understanding of each other, which can be improved by providing information on the disease and coping strategies for both the patient and the relative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Christel Vioulac
- Laboratory of Psychopathology and Health Processes EA 4057, University of Paris Descartes - Sorbonne Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Emilie Boujut
- Laboratory of Psychopathology and Health Processes EA 4057, University of Paris Descartes - Sorbonne Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | | | - Catherine Beauvais
- Hôpitaux universitaires Est Parisien, AP-HP, Rheumatology Department, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Joelle Kivits
- EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | | | | | - Aurélie Untas
- Laboratory of Psychopathology and Health Processes EA 4057, University of Paris Descartes - Sorbonne Paris Cité, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Anne-Christine Rat
- EA 4360 APEMAC, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France.,Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Nancy, Nancy, France
| |
Collapse
|