Long-term conditions. 3: Being an expert patient.
This third article in the series focusing on long-term conditions explores the patient perspective. Drawing on the experiences of seven people affected by a variety of long-term conditions, it illustrates how the journey towards being an expert patient is often lengthy and traumatic. Pre- and post-diagnosis phases are narrated, and the process of becoming an expert patient described. The articles suggests that there is significant potential for the development of a reciprocal relationship between patients and health professionals framed by mutual learning and advice.
Pioneer Group, Bedford, UK. mayorv@yahoo.co.uk
Vina
V
Mayor
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D003255:Consumer Organizations / Q000458:organization & administration; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008016:Life Change Events; D008134:Long-Term Care / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology*; D024802:Nurse's Role; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011637:Public Health Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration; D011788:Quality of Life; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology*; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration; D012944:Social Support