P038 Measuring social engagement in rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases

Abstract

Abstract Background/Aims Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) result in reduced social well-being and social engagement (SE). Despite being an important outcome for patients, SE is rarely measured in studies or clinical practice. Furthermore, social media and COVID-19 has changed how we interact with society. We aimed to evaluate existing SE measures used in RMD populations. Methods A systematic review of the qualitative literature and thematic analysis identified key impacts of RMDs and associated treatments on SE [unrestricted date -February 2023]. A systematic review of the quantitative literature [unrestricted date-February 2022] identified existing SE measures validated for use within RMDs, their constructs and compared these to themes identified from the qualitative literature. Results From 2601 records screened, we identified 30 eligible qualitative papers. Thematic analysis highlighted barriers and facilitators of SE in RMDs:. Barriers to SE included: 1) Direct effects of RMDs 2) Practicalities of undertaking SE 3) Social networks and roles. Facilitators of SE included: 1) Benefits of SE 2) Resilience & Acceptance 3) Activity Adjustment. From 7772 records screened we identified 15 specific SE measures validated in RMD populations. These measures focused on measuring frequency, satisfaction, difficulty, and modification of SE. Table 1 shows how many of the existing SE measures validated for use in RMDs identified in the quantitative systematic review measure the key impacts of RMDs on SE as identified in the qualitative thematic analysis. Conclusion Existing measures of SE do not assess the wide range of impacts identified as important to patients. There is a need for a new SE measure to inform interventions to improve health and social outcomes for people with RMDs. Focus groups involving individuals with RMDs, and key stakeholders are planned to present the findings from the systematic reviews and facilitate discussion to help inform development of a new measure of SE. Disclosure A. Maciver: None. G. Macfarlane: None. R.J. Hollick: None.