Health-related quality of life for patients with chronic conditions – the importance of group organised physiotherapy – a mixed methods study

PURPOSE The study investigated health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for patients with chronic conditions attending physiotherapy regularly and also examine the impact of physiotherapy on HRQoL.
METHODS In this mixed methods study, 52 patients attending group physiotherapy because of various chronic conditions answered the EuroQoL five-dimensional instrument (EQ-5D-3L) questionnaire (respondents). Three focus group interviews were conducted with nine of them (participants) and analysed according to Giorgi’s phenomenological method.
RESULTS Most of the respondents reported moderate problems with mobility, usual activities, and pain/discomfort on the EQ-5D dimensions. The interviews stated that physiotherapy was important for the participants because the physiotherapist used the patient-centred approach and managed to provide individually tailored patient education and pain management. The training had an impact on health-related quality of life and made it possible for the participants to take part in social life with family and friends. Recognition of limitations from peers in the group and from the physiotherapist played an important role for their motivation and adherence to the group training.
CONCLUSION Health-related quality of life was affected for patients with chronic conditions. Group-based physiotherapy with individually tailored patient education made it possible to maintain a certain level of independence in everyday activities.