POLNOR-RHEUMA_UA: Diagnosis delay in patients with axial spondyloarthritis: factors and outcomes – a Polish perspective

Bilateral initiative facts

Promoter:
Jagiellonian University Medical College(PL)
Bilateral initiative number:
PL-Applied Research-BI009
Status:
Completed
Initial cost:
€15,000
Actual cost:
€10,625
Initiative Types:
OtherScheme: Support for Ukrainian researchers under Bilateral Fund of ‘Applied Research’ Programme
Programme:
Programme areas:

More information

Description

This research project meets the goal and objectives of the ongoing project entitled The POLish NORwegian research collaboration to increase quality of health care and improve health outcomes of children and adult patients with RHEUMAtological diseases – the POLNOR RHEUMA project which is aimed to increase the quality of healthcare and improve health outcomes of patients with rheumatic diseases in Poland. It should be a valuable complement to WP4: Systematic monitoring of adult patients with chronic rheumatic inflammatory diseases.
At the same time, the new project has its own methodology and

Summary of the results

Our research employed a survey-based approach to garner AxSpA patients’ and healthcare professionals'' opinions essential for improved healthcare planning and management. Prof. O. Zimba, Ukrainian researcher, conducted two separate cross-sectional surveys. We surveyed patients with AxSpA. The questionnaire included questions on types of physical activities, barriers to exercising, satisfaction with medical care, patientphysician interactions, diagnostic delays, and use of teleconsultations. The second online survey was performed to assess healthcare professionals'' knowledge, perceptions, and practices related to axSpA diagnosis, management, and monitoring. The results from the patients’ survey showed that while AxSpA patients recognize the importance of physical activity in managing their condition, significant barriers exist to engaging them in regular exercise. The survey identified critical areas where patient dissatisfaction or uncertainty is notably prevalent. The online cross-sectional survey study among healthcare professionals provides beneficial data on their knowledge, perceptions, and practices regarding AxSpA. The pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment approaches vary, emphasizing the importance of personalized care. In conclusion, while diagnostic familiarity and a multidisciplinary approach are positives, there is potential to standardize management, improve telemedicine services, remove barriers to physical activity, and optimize treatment options.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.