Parental food allergy information needs: a qualitative study.
OBJECTIVE
To examine information needs and preferences of parents regarding food allergy.


METHODS
Qualitative study including in-depth semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using the constant comparative method, aided by participant checking of interview summaries, independent reviewers and qualitative analysis software.


METHODS
84 parents of children with food allergy.


METHODS
Three paediatric allergy clinics and a national consumer organisation.


RESULTS
Most parent participants had received third level education (72%) and 39% had occupational backgrounds in health and education. Parents experienced different phases in their need for information: at diagnosis when there is an intense desire for information, at follow-up when there is continuing uncertainty about allergy severity and appropriate management, and at new events and milestones. They preferred information to be provided in a variety of formats, with access to reliable individualised advice between clinic appointments, within the context of an ongoing relationship with a health professional. Parents wished to know the reasoning behind doctor's opinions and identified areas of core information content, including unaddressed topics such as what to feed their child rather than what to avoid. Suboptimal information provision was cited by parents as a key reason for seeking second opinions.


CONCLUSIONS
Parents with children with food allergies have unmet information needs. Study findings may assist in the design and implementation of targeted educational strategies which better meet parental needs and preferences.
Hu
Wendy
W
Department of Allergy, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia. wendyhu@med.usyd.edu.au
Grbich
Carol
C
Kemp
Andrew
A
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D005512:Food Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D005515:Food Labeling / Q000592:standards; D006266:Health Education / Q000592:standards*; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology*; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011368:Professional-Family Relations