Main Findings of the Study
This study looked at ways to help people with lupus feel better through remote support. It tested three different programs over 8-12 weeks:
- Listening Support: A program called The Wren project where participants could talk about their feelings.
- Online Pilates Classes: Exercise classes conducted online.
- Text and Video Support: A program that sent supportive messages and videos.
Overall, all three programs were found to be acceptable and feasible for patients. The listening support was the most helpful, with 89% of participants finding it beneficial. Many reported feeling better mentally after participating in the programs.
What Worked and What Didn’t
What Worked:
- Listening support was rated the highest for helpfulness.
- Many participants felt better mentally after the interventions.
- All interventions were easy to deliver and acceptable to patients.
What Didn’t Work:
- Attendance for Pilates classes was low, with only 55% attending more than half of the classes.
- Some participants preferred different types of support than what was offered in the text/video program.
How This Helps Patients and Clinics
This study shows that remote support can be a valuable option for people with lupus. It highlights that:
- Patients can receive effective support without needing to visit a clinic.
- Listening support is particularly beneficial for mental health.
- Clinics can offer these programs as part of their care for lupus patients.
Real-World Opportunities
Hospitals and doctors can:
- Implement listening support programs to help patients talk about their feelings.
- Offer online exercise classes to improve physical health.
- Use text and video messaging for ongoing support and encouragement.
Measurable Outcomes to Track
Clinics should monitor:
- Patient satisfaction with the interventions.
- Changes in mental health scores (like depression and resilience).
- Attendance rates for online classes.
- Overall feedback on the usefulness of each program.
AI Tools for Support
Clinics can explore AI tools that:
- Help personalize messaging and support based on patient needs.
- Track patient engagement and outcomes efficiently.
Step-by-Step Plan for Clinics
To start applying these findings, clinics can:
- Start Small: Choose one program, like listening support, to implement first.
- Gather Feedback: Ask patients for their thoughts on the program to make improvements.
- Expand Gradually: Once successful, introduce additional programs like Pilates or text/video support.
- Monitor Progress: Regularly track outcomes and make adjustments based on patient feedback.
For more details on the research, you can view the study here.
