JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterised by recurrent fluctuations in symptoms such as joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Remote Measurement Technologies (RMTs) offer the opportunity to track symptoms continuously and in real-time, and therefore may provide a more accurate picture of RA disease activity as a complement to pre-scheduled GP appointments. Previous research has shown patient interest in symptom-tracking apps for RA, as well as provided evidence for its clinical validity. However, it remains unclear which features of RMTs best promote optimal engagement.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine the important outcomes for disease-management for patients with RA, and how these can be best captured via a remote measurement app.

Methods:

Nine patients with RA were recruited from King’s College Hospital to participate in two semi-structured focus groups. Ages ranged from 23 to 77 years (M = 55.78, SD = 17.54) Both discussions were conducted by a facilitator and a lived-experience researcher. Sessions were recorded, transcribed, independently coded and analysed for themes.

Results:

Thematic analysis identified a total of four overarching themes: (1) important symptoms and outcomes in RA, (2) management of RA symptoms, (3) views on the current healthcare system, and (4) views on the use of RMT in RA. Key health, work and social factors were highlighted as important outcomes in RA disease management. There was general consensus that the ability to track symptoms (pain, mobility) and transmit such data to clinicians would aid towards individual symptom management and effectiveness of clinical care. Suggestions for capturing symptom fluctuations visually in an app were put forward.

Conclusions:

Findings support previous work on the acceptability of RMT with RA disease management, and address key outcomes for integration into an app for RA symptom tracking.