Use of an online selfmanagement program improves self-efficacy abilities in COPD patients

Abstract

Introduction: Selfmanagement (SM) programs play an increasing role in integrated care strategies for COPD. Patients who use such programs might pursue higher levels of selfefficacy and improve their SM abilities. Methods: We conducted a longitudinal study to compare SM properties of users and non-users of an online program (www.mycopdonline.nl;Curavista) in Havenziekenhuis & Franciscus Gasthuis Rotterdam, NL (unrestricted grant AstraZeneca). Users: all COPD patients using the program between August and October 2015. Controls: programnaive COPD patients. All were asked to fill out the following questionnaires by post during the winter of 2015 & 2016: Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13), Partners In Health (PIHNL) and SM Ability Score short version (SMASs).Data were analyzed by multiple linear regression and adjusted for covariables:age, sex and disease severity. Results: 43 Users and 132 controls responded in the first round. Before and after adjustments, users scored higher on PAM13 and PIHNL. In the second round 38 users and 92 controls responded. Users scored higher on PAM-13 and PIH-NL before and after adjustments. More importantly, after adjustments users were in favour on the improvement of their SM abilities (SMASs) (table 1). Conclusion: Patients with COPD using an online selfmanagement program pursue and maintain higher levels of selfefficacy even after adjustment for covariables. This use might even improve their SM abilities. Online SM programs should be offered to all patients with COPD that pursue higher levels of selfefficacy