Seeking the views of health professionals on translating chronic disease self-management models into practice

Abstract

Few studies have investigated the views of health professionals with respect to their use of chronic disease self-management (CDSM) in the workplace.

Objective: This qualitative study, conducted in an Australian health care setting, examined health professional's formal self-management (SM) training and their views and experiences on the use of SM techniques when working with people living with a chronic illness.

Methods: Purposive sample of 31 health care professionals from a range of service types participated in semi-structured interviews.

Results: The majority of participants (65%) had received no formal training in SM techniques. Participants reported a preference for an eclectic approach to SM, relying primarily on five elements: collaborative care, self-responsibility, client's individual situation, structured support and linking with community agencies. Problems with CDSM centred on medication management, complex measuring devices and limited efficacy with some patient groups.

Conclusion: This study provides valuable information with respect to the use of CDSM within the workplace from the unique perspective of a range of healthcare providers within an Australian health care setting.

Practice implications: Training implications, with respect to CDSM and patient care, are discussed, together with how these findings contribute to the debate concerning how SM principles are translated into healthcare settings.