Patient Perceptions of Psoriatic Arthritis Management and Communication with Physicians in Australia: Results from a Patient Survey

Abstract

Introduction The objective of this report was to evaluate perceptions of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treatment and satisfaction with healthcare professional (HCP) communication among patients with PsA in Australia, compared with overall global perceptions. Methods Data were collected via a global and country-specific survey (The Harris Poll; November 2, 2017–March 12, 2018). Eligible patients were ≥ 18 years old, had been diagnosed with PsA > 1 year prior, had seen a rheumatologist or dermatologist within the past 12 months, and had previously received ≥ 1 conventional synthetic or biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug. Data reported by patients included baseline demographics, overall health, time since PsA diagnosis, PsA severity, satisfaction with current PsA medication and management, and experiences regarding communication with their HCP. Descriptive statistics were obtained. Results Most patients in Australia were very or somewhat satisfied with their PsA medication, and reported always or often taking their medication exactly as directed by their HCP. However, the majority still experienced symptoms, reported their overall health as poor or fair, and would change something about their PsA medication. While the majority of patients in Australia were satisfied with the communication with their HCP, most would prefer increased communication but some felt that asking too many questions would affect the quality of their care. Perceptions in Australia were similar to global perceptions. Conclusions Although most patients with PsA in Australia were satisfied with their disease management and communication with their HCP, many still experienced symptoms, would change something about their PsA medication, and would prefer increased communication with their HCP. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40744-021-00297-w.

Evolution of Patient Perceptions of Psoriatic Disease: Results from the Understanding Psoriatic Disease Leveraging Insights for Treatment (UPLIFT) Survey

“…Furthermore, recall of past office visit discussions differed between patients and dermatologists, highlighting an opportunity to better align patient and physician perceptions of PsO treatment and goals of therapy. These findings are in line with results from the global Harris poll, a web-based survey of patients with PsA, which found that most patients wished for increased communication with their physicians about their disease and treatment goals [ 26 ]. Considering that National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF)–American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) guidelines emphasize the importance of the patient–provider relationship in the care of patients with psoriasis [ 7 ], results from UPLIFT suggest there is an opportunity to improve communication and patient care.…”

“…Furthermore, some patients had discontinued oral or injectable/intravenous treatments because of lack of access or insurance issues. Reasons for discontinuing PsO medications among patients in UPLIFT were consistent with those reported in the Harris poll among patients with PsA [ 26 ]. Also, more than 80% of patients with PsO in UPLIFT believed there was a need for better therapies, which was generally consistent with findings from the Harris poll [ 26 ].…”

“…Reasons for discontinuing PsO medications among patients in UPLIFT were consistent with those reported in the Harris poll among patients with PsA [ 26 ]. Also, more than 80% of patients with PsO in UPLIFT believed there was a need for better therapies, which was generally consistent with findings from the Harris poll [ 26 ]. Taken together, findings from UPLIFT suggest there is an opportunity to further optimize treatment for many patients with PsO.…”

Non-Physical Disease Facets in Spondyloarthritis: An ASAS Health Index-Based Analysis between Psoriatic Arthritis and Axial Spondyloarthritis

“…These data highlight the significant burden of these psychosocial factors on the health-related QoL (HRQoL) in both types of SpA. Furthermore, these patients may be frustrated by delayed diagnoses and a lack of communication with their healthcare providers [ 5 , 6 ].…”