Paediatricians' perceptions of a potential online psychosocial intervention for children with recurrent abdominal pain

Abstract

To evaluate paediatricians' perceived effectiveness of an online psychosocial intervention for children with recurrent abdominal pain (RAP). Also, to explore which elements of this intervention they would consider necessary when applied in the clinical context. A total of 131 paediatricians affiliated to Catalan and Balearic paediatric societies completed an online survey about how effective they would perceive an online psychosocial intervention for RAP (for reducing pain intensity, reducing disability and preventing chronicity) and how this intervention should be carried out. They were asked about the perceived effectiveness of the standard medical treatments they routinely applied for RAP and also their opinion of face-to-face psychosocial interventions. A face-to face psychosocial intervention was considered better (to reduce pain intensity, reduce disability and prevent chronic pain) than an online psychological intervention and the standard medical treatment. Online and face-to-face psychosocial interventions are considered equally useful for children with mild disability, but a face-to-face psychosocial intervention is considered better for those with moderate and severe levels of disability. Paediatricians considered that an online psychosocial intervention for children with RAP should be simple and consistent; it should provide easy access for users; and its interface should be easy to use and attractive. Paediatricians show a positive attitude towards a potential online psychosocial intervention for children and adolescents with RAP. However, they do not use the Internet for offering health care, and they would prefer a face-to-face psychosocial intervention.