Roper KL, Jones J, Rowland C, Thomas-Eapen N, Cardarelli R. Mixed Methods Study of Patient and Primary Care Provider Perceptions of Chronic Pain Treatment.
Patient Educ Couns 2021;
104:585-594. [PMID:
32958306 PMCID:
PMC7921200 DOI:
10.1016/j.pec.2020.08.038]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
A mixed-method study involving patient focus groups and survey of primary care providers (PCPs) sought to compare perspectives about chronic pain (CP) and its treatment. Our goal was to identify needs and barriers for facilitating patient-centered care.
METHODS
Two focus groups of CP patients from a single academic medical center explored interactions with PCPs and their understandings, experiences, and expectations of CP treatment. They were also asked their opinions about self-assessment/communication tools. We compared themes with survey data from two PCP research networks.
RESULTS
CP patients understand opioid risks and fear PCP judgement and condescension, while sensing PCP fear and avoidance of opioid prescribing. PCPs are dissatisfied with their ability to provide optimal CP care, despite feeling that patients are generally satisfied with their clinic visits. Evaluation tools, especially assessment of functional activities, are favorably viewed by all, but deemed time prohibitive.
CONCLUSION
Patients' understanding of opioid risks, desire for attention on functional goals and behavioral treatment may be greater than PCPs perceive. Such gaps in understanding and attitudes, if recognized, could support high-quality communication and interventional strategies.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS
These findings guide patient-PCP communication toward alignment of treatment goals and enhanced coordination of care.
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