Control perceptions in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: the impact of the medical consultation

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors that patients perceive as influencing control in living with the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHOD: A sample of 40 patients with RA were recruited randomly from an out-patient population. The participants of the sample were interviewed in depth by one researcher to identify perceptions of control. They also completed two self-administered questionnaires, the Health Assessment Questionnaire and the Rheumatology Attitude Index. RESULTS: Four major categories were identified that positively influenced perceptions of control in patients living with the consequences of RA. These included: (i) the reduction of physical symptoms; (ii) social support matching perceived need; (iii) the provision of information; and (iv) the medical consultation. Components of the consultation included patient involvement, provision of information, feedback and reassurance, empathy and access to an expert. CONCLUSION: The categories identified can be influenced by health-care professionals in the management of the patient, and if the medical consultation is utilized to its full potential it can play a major role in enabling patients with RA to manage the daily symptoms of their condition.