(317) Development of a Semi-Structured Interview to Understand VA Treatment Barriers for Clinicians Treating Women Veterans with Fibromyalgia: A Qualitative Pilot Study

Abstract

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a vexing pain condition that primarily impacts women with a history of trauma. Women veterans experience posttraumatic stress disorder in their lifetime almost twice as often as their civilian counterparts (13.4% vs. 8.0%). Due to their high rates of trauma exposure, women veterans are at an increased risk of developing FM, with rates higher than those in the civilian population (5.1% vs. 2.0%). The present pilot study seeks to identify preferences for care for women veterans with FM at the Boston VA Healthcare System (VABHS) through qualitative interviews with patients and health care providers. Data from patient interviews (n = 13) has identified several themes including a desire for improved multidisciplinary care and provider education on FM. Using this information, we developed a semi-structured interview script for providers who are most likely to serve as a primary care physician for FM patients including neurologists, rheumatologists, pain specialists, and women's health clinicians. The script also includes open-ended questions about provider knowledge of FM, preferred treatment options, utilization of multidisciplinary teams/resources, and successes and difficulties in providing optimal care to FM patients. Provider and patient interview data are expected to reveal details about the VABHS's efficacy in providing adequate care to an expanding population of women veterans. We hope to use this information to create educational materials on FM and methods to improve communication between providers. This project was funded by the Veterans Affairs Central Office. (Wolfe, Arthritis Rheumatol, 1995; Al-Allaf, Rheumatology, 2002; Lehavot, Am J Prev Med, 2018; Mohanty, Med Care, 2015)