Assessing user needs to design personalized Osteoarthritis Self Care Management Portal

Background: Self-care has been recognized as critical in chronic disease management. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent form of arthritis, and is associated with significant disability. As there is no specific pharmacological therapy to prevent joint damage in OA, the goal of the management is to control pain, minimize disability, improved quality of life and educate the patient about their role in the management team.

Objective: The purpose of the study is to explore existing and future needs of individuals with OA that can enhance self care management by helping design systems that match user requirements.

Methods: A consecutive sample of 19 adult OA patients was enrolled during March 2009 to May 2009 from University of Maryland healthcare facility. A mixed method study design was used to gather information about individuals' socio- demographics, OA symptoms, medication, diet, weight and exercise management. PKQ-OA questionnaire was used to assess participants' OA knowledge. The participants' familiarity with the use of computers and internet was also assessed.

Results: Majority of the participants was older women, predominantly Caucasians and had average OA knowledge levels. Pain was self-reported as the most bothersome symptom. Medications were primarily used to manage OA. Barriers to pharmacological and non pharmacological therapy adherence included cost of medications, lack of individualized occupational and vocational needs, diet, weight and exercise information. More than fifty percent of them had computers and internet at their homes. Participants were motivated to use computers and cell phone as a medium to receive personalized OA information and that would improve their condition through better symptom monitoring, education and communication with their healthcare providers.

Conclusion: Recognition of individualized managment in OA, will help in adopting specific techniques tailored towards each patient's self care tasks . Such personalizing solutions may prevent disability in OA.