Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Educational Preferences: In-person vs Virtual

Abstract

PURPOSEThis investigation consisted of a survey of patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue who participated in the Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Clinic (FCFC) in a tertiary care center. This study assessed if patients preferred in-person or virtual educational sessions for their treatment program during the COVID pandemic. We hypothesized a relatively even split as to the preference of in-person or virtual sessions. The FCFC, operational since 1999, consists of in-depth educational sessions, led by RN staff. Patients receive 8 hours of education, divided into two 4-hour sessions. Educational topics include symptoms, pathophysiology, medication, and non-medication strategies. Since the inception of our clinic, these educational sessions have been provided via an in-person group setting. However, given the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant changes in travel and infection control policies, we began offering the sessions online via Zoom. Currently we provide the option of traditional in-person or online sessions. Though the options are appreciated by our patients, we did not have any data to support the benefits or barriers that each of these options have. METHODSThe survey-based observational study utilized a Qualtrics survey that was emailed directly to patients following participation in either class format. After determining there were insufficient numbers from the in-person class participants, we printed out paper copies and asked patients who were willing, to complete those forms. This study was determined to be a quality assurance project by our Institutional Review Board. RESULTS90 patients completed the survey: 53 from the virtual sessions and 37 from in-person. Results highlighted patient preferences. CONCLUSIONAll patients reported they found the information valuable and that they were generally satisfied with their educational sessions. Virtual attendees identified some potential limitations, mainly not feeling as connected with peers or as engaged in the sessions.