Journal: Patient Education and Counseling. Article first published
online 14 May 2011.
Authors: Anderson, V. R., Jason, L. A., Hlavaty, L. E., Porter, N., &
Cudia, J. (2011).
NLM Citation: PMID: 21571484
OBJECTIVE: To review and synthesize findings across qualitative studies
on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
METHODS: Articles were systematically reviewed and analyzed within a
meta-analytic framework. Analyses included a multi-perspective
examination of ME/CFS, as well as a comparative analysis of ME/CFS
versus other chronic conditions.
RESULTS: Thirty-four qualitative studies on ME/CFS were included.
Findings include three substantive thematic areas that focus on: (1)
experiences of people with ME/CFS, (2) experiences of physicians, and
(3) themes that intersect both of these groups. For patients, illness
development influenced identity, reductions in functioning, and coping.
Physician-specific themes described lack of awareness about ME/CFS and
recommended improvement in educational resources. Intersecting themes
expressed issues with diagnosis creating tensions and fueling the
stigmatization of ME/CFS.
CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate multilayered, context-specific
experiences and ways in which both people with ME/CFS, as well as those
involved in their lives (e.g., family or the medical community),
interpret this illness. Future qualitative studies should recognize the
various facets of the ME/CFS experience, the network members of people
with ME/CFS, and the sociocultural environment through which the illness
is understood.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Health care professionals can gain unique insight
from patient experiences, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and
treatment recommendations.
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