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Nagel C, Queenan C, Burton C. What are medical students taught about persistent physical symptoms? A scoping review of the literature. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:618. [PMID: 38835003 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05610-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistent Physical Symptoms (PPS) include symptoms such as chronic pain, and syndromes such as chronic fatigue. They are common, but are often inadequately managed, causing distress and higher costs for health care systems. A lack of teaching about PPS has been recognised as a contributing factor to poor management. METHODS The authors conducted a scoping review of the literature, including all studies published before 31 March 2023. Systematic methods were used to determine what teaching on PPS was taking place for medical undergraduates. Studies were restricted to publications in English and needed to include undergraduate medical students. Teaching about cancer pain was excluded. After descriptive data was extracted, a narrative synthesis was undertaken to analyse qualitative findings. RESULTS A total of 1116 studies were found, after exclusion, from 3 databases. A further 28 studies were found by searching the grey literature and by citation analysis. After screening for relevance, a total of 57 studies were included in the review. The most commonly taught condition was chronic non-cancer pain, but overall, there was a widespread lack of teaching and learning on PPS. Several factors contributed to this lack including: educators and learners viewing the topic as awkward, learners feeling that there was no science behind the symptoms, and the topic being overlooked in the taught curriculum. The gap between the taught curriculum and learners' experiences in practice was addressed through informal sources and this risked stigmatising attitudes towards sufferers of PPS. CONCLUSION Faculties need to find ways to integrate more teaching on PPS and address the barriers outlined above. Teaching on chronic non-cancer pain, which is built on a science of symptoms, can be used as an exemplar for teaching on PPS more widely. Any future teaching interventions should be robustly evaluated to ensure improvements for learners and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catie Nagel
- Primary Care Research Group, Division of Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, S1 4DA, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Chloe Queenan
- Primary Care Research Group, Division of Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, S1 4DA, Sheffield, UK
| | - Chris Burton
- Primary Care Research Group, Division of Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, S1 4DA, Sheffield, UK
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Mariman A, Vermeir P, Csabai M, Weiland A, Stegers-Jager K, Vermeir R, Vogelaers D. Education on medically unexplained symptoms: a systematic review with a focus on cultural diversity and migrants. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:145. [PMID: 37013665 PMCID: PMC10069028 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01105-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care providers often struggle with the management of patients with medically unexplained symptoms (MUS), especially in case of a different ethnicity and/or cultural background. These challenges are insufficiently addressed in their training. OBJECTIVES A systematic review on education in the field of MUS in a diverse context to improve MUS healthcare provider-patient interaction focused on intercultural communication. METHODS Screening of PubMed, Web of Science, Cinahl and Cochrane Library on the keywords 'Medical unexplained (physical) symptoms (MUS)', 'Somatoform disorder', 'Functional syndrome', 'Diversity', 'Migrants', 'Ethnicity', 'Care models', 'Medical education', 'Communication skills', 'Health literacy'. RESULTS MUS patients, especially with a different ethnic background, often feel not understood or neglected. Health care providers experience feelings of helplessness, which may provoke medical shopping and resource consumption. Attitudes and perceptions from undergraduate trainees to senior physicians tend to be negative, impacting on the quality of the patient/health care provider relationship and subsequently on health outcomes, patient satisfaction and therapeutic adherence. Current undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate education and training does not prepare health care providers for diagnosing and managing MUS patients in a diverse context. A continuum of training is necessary to achieve a long term and lasting change in attitudes towards these patients and trainers play a key role in this process. Hence, education should pay attention to MUS, requiring a specific competency profile and training, taken into account the variety in patients' cultural backgrounds. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review identified significant gaps and shortcomings in education on MUS in a diverse context. These need to be addressed to improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Mariman
- Faculty of Medicine and Healthcare Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Centre for Integrative Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Vermeir
- Faculty of Medicine and Healthcare Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
- Dean's Office of the Faculty of Medicine and Healthcare Sciences, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Marta Csabai
- Institute of Psychology, Károli Gáspár University of the Reformed Church, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anne Weiland
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karen Stegers-Jager
- Institute of Medical Education Research, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ruben Vermeir
- Faculty of Medicine and Healthcare Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk Vogelaers
- Faculty of Medicine and Healthcare Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of General Internal Medicine, AZ Delta, Roeselare, Belgium
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Hunt J, Blease C, Geraghty KJ. Long Covid at the crossroads: Comparisons and lessons from the treatment of patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). J Health Psychol 2022; 27:3106-3120. [PMID: 35341334 DOI: 10.1177/13591053221084494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Whilst parallels have been drawn between Long Covid and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), there is a well-documented history of negative stereotyping and marginalisation of patients with ME/CFS. A socio-politically oriented comparison of scientific, clinical and societal responses to Long Covid and ME/CFS is thus important to prevent similar harms arising among Long Covid patients. We identify four reasons for injustices in the treatment of ME/CFS patients, and discuss the risk of Long Covid following a similar trajectory. We conclude with policy and practice recommendations to help prevent such injustices arising again, including consideration of critical reflexivity in medical education.
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Byrne EA. Understanding Long Covid: Nosology, social attitudes and stigma. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 99:17-24. [PMID: 34563621 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The debate around Long Covid has so far shown resistance to accept parallels between Long Covid and a set of existing conditions which have historically been subject to stigma. This resistance risks endorsing the stigma associated with such existing conditions, and as such, these dynamics of stigma ought to be dismantled in order to facilitate the development of effective clinical resources for all such implicated conditions. As well as affecting proceedings at the structural level, I discuss how the aforementioned problems also risk affecting patients at the personal level by motivating the reconfiguration and restriction of patient illness narratives. The problems I identify therefore risk affecting both collective and individual understanding of Long Covid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Alexandra Byrne
- University of York, Sally Baldwin Buildings Block A, Wentworth Way, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom.
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5
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Hng KN, Geraghty K, Pheby DFH. An Audit of UK Hospital Doctors' Knowledge and Experience of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:885. [PMID: 34577808 PMCID: PMC8464998 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57090885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: There is some evidence that knowledge and understanding of ME among doctors is limited. Consequently, an audit study was carried out on a group of hospital doctors attending a training event to establish how much they knew about ME and their attitudes towards it. Materials and Methods: Participants at the training event were asked to complete a questionnaire, enquiring about prior knowledge and experience of ME and their approaches to diagnosis and treatment. A total of 44 completed questionnaires were returned. Responses were tabulated, proportions selecting available options determined, 95% confidence limits calculated, and the significance of associations determined by Fisher's exact test. Results: Few respondents had any formal teaching on ME, though most had some experience of it. Few knew how to diagnose it and most lacked confidence in managing it. None of the respondents who had had teaching or prior experience of ME considered it a purely physical illness. Overall, 82% of participants believed ME was at least in part psychological. Most participants responded correctly to a series of propositions about the general epidemiology and chronicity of ME. There was little knowledge of definitions of ME, diagnosis, or of clinical manifestations. Understanding about appropriate management was very deficient. Similarly, there was little appreciation of the impact of the disease on daily living or quality of life. Where some doctors expressed confidence diagnosing or managing ME, this was misplaced as they were incorrect on the nature of ME, its diagnostic criteria and its treatment. Conclusion: This audit demonstrates that most doctors lack training and clinical expertise in ME. Nevertheless, participants recognised a need for further training and indicated a wish to participate in this. It is strongly recommended that factually correct and up-to-date medical education on ME be made a priority at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It is also recommended that this audit be repeated following a period of medical education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keng Ngee Hng
- ST7 General Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology (Ret), Doctors with M.E., Office 7, 37-39 Shakespeare Street, Southport PR8 5AB, UK
| | - Keith Geraghty
- Centre for Primary Care, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Derek F. H. Pheby
- Society and Health, Buckinghamshire New University, High Wycombe HP11 2JZ, UK;
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Muirhead N, Muirhead J, Lavery G, Marsh B. Medical School Education on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57060542. [PMID: 34071264 PMCID: PMC8230290 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57060542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex multi-system disease with a significant impact on the quality of life of patients and their families, yet the majority of ME/CFS patients go unrecognised or undiagnosed. For two decades, the medical education establishment in the UK has been challenged to remedy these failings, but little has changed. Meanwhile, there has been an exponential increase in biomedical research and an international paradigm shift in the literature, which defines ME/CFS as a multisystem disease, replacing the psychogenic narrative. This study was designed to explore the current UK medical school education on ME/CFS and to identify challenges and opportunities relating to future ME/CFS medical education. Materials and methods: A questionnaire, developed under the guidance of the Medical Schools Council, was sent to all 34 UK medical schools to collect data for the academic year 2018–2019. Results: Responses were provided by 22 out of a total of 34 medical schools (65%); of these 13/22 (59%) taught ME/CFS, and teaching was led by lecturers from ten medical specialties. Teaching delivery was usually by lecture; discussion, case studies and e-learning were also used. Questions on ME/CFS were included by seven schools in their examinations and three schools reported likely clinical exposure to ME/CFS patients. Two-thirds of respondents were interested in receiving further teaching aids in ME/CFS. None of the schools shared details of their teaching syllabus, so it was not possible to ascertain what the students were being taught. Conclusions: This exploratory study reveals inadequacies in medical school teaching on ME/CFS. Many medical schools (64% of respondents) acknowledge the need to update ME/CFS education by expressing an appetite for further educational materials. The General Medical Council (GMC) and Medical Schools Council (MSC) are called upon to use their considerable influence to bring about the appropriate changes to medical school curricula so future doctors can recognise, diagnose and treat ME/CFS. The GMC is urged to consider creating a registered specialty encompassing ME/CFS, post-viral fatigue and long Covid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Muirhead
- Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Amersham Hospital, Whielden Street, Amersham HP7 0JD, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - John Muirhead
- Boston Consultants Ltd., Solihull, West Midlands B93 8PG, UK;
| | - Grace Lavery
- School of Medicine, Cardiff University Medical School, Neuadd Meirionnydd, Cardiff CF14 4YS, UK;
| | - Ben Marsh
- University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Derriford Hospital, Derriford Road, Plymouth, Devon PL6 8DH, UK;
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Cotler J, Katz BZ, Reurts-Post C, Vermeulen R, Jason LA. A hierarchical logistic regression predicting rapid respiratory rates from post-exertional malaise. FATIGUE : BIOMEDICINE, HEALTH & BEHAVIOR 2020; 8:205-213. [PMID: 36313239 PMCID: PMC9610439 DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2020.1845287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Past research has found high rates of hyperventilation in patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), but hyperventilation can be influenced by psychological factors. Clinical respiratory rates have been less frequently assessed. AIM This study aimed to identify the predictors of rapid respiratory rates in patients referred to an outpatient clinic specializing in ME/CFS. METHODS Adults (n = 216) referred to an outpatient clinic specializing in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) participated in a two-day cardiopulmonary exercise test. As part of that evaluation, subjects had resting respiratory rates measured on two consecutive days. The current study used questionnaires to assess the relationship between tachypnea (rapid respiratory rates) and a variety of domains including post-exertional malaise (PEM), a common complaint in patients with ME/CFS, and psychiatric/somatic symptoms, using hierarchical logistic regression analysis. RESULTS PEM was a significant predictor of tachypnea, while psychological/somatic assessments and sedentary behaviors were not significantly predictive of tachypnea. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that respiratory rate may be useful as an objective clinical metric of PEM, and potentially ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Cotler
- Department of Psychology, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ben Z. Katz
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
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8
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Byrne EA. Striking the balance with epistemic injustice in healthcare: the case of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2020; 23:371-379. [PMID: 32170570 PMCID: PMC7426317 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-020-09945-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Miranda Fricker's influential concept of epistemic injustice (Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2007) has recently seen application to many areas of interest, with an increasing body of healthcare research using the concept of epistemic injustice in order to develop both general frameworks and accounts of specific medical conditions and patient groups. This paper illuminates tensions that arise between taking steps to protect against committing epistemic injustice in healthcare, and taking steps to understand the complexity of one's predicament and treat it accordingly. Work on epistemic injustice is therefore at risk of obfuscating legitimate and potentially fruitful inquiry. This paper uses Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis as a case study, but I suggest that the key problems identified could apply to other cases within healthcare, such as those classed as Medically Unexplained Illnesses, Functional Neurological Disorders and Psychiatric Disorders. Future work on epistemic injustice in healthcare must recognise and attend to this tension to protect against unsatisfactory attempts to correct epistemic injustice.
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9
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Leeds FS, Sommer EM, Andrasik WJ, Atwa KM, Crawford TN. A Patient-Narrative Video Approach to Teaching Fibromyalgia. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL EDUCATION AND CURRICULAR DEVELOPMENT 2020; 7:2382120520947068. [PMID: 32821851 PMCID: PMC7412912 DOI: 10.1177/2382120520947068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although fibromyalgia is one of the most common and clinically important rheumatologic entities, physicians frequently report that their training fails to prepare them to manage this disease. Many medical schools devote insufficient time and attention to the subject of fibromyalgia, resulting in training gaps that can manifest as failures of both knowledge and empathy. There is a need for evidence-based, time-efficient methods for teaching this important subject. We have developed a narrative-driven video presentation for clerkship students and sought to evaluate its impact on fibromyalgia-related knowledge and attitudes. METHODS Fibromyalgia: A Patient's Perspective (FPP), a 13-minute video, was presented to third-year medical students (N = 54). Surveys of knowledge and attitudes were collected before and after the video. Composite scores, as well as Knowledge and Attitudes subscales, were computed, and paired t tests were used to compare pre/post means for these scales, as well as for individual questions. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to identify correlations between survey scores and student sex and specialty of interest. RESULTS Between pre-experience and post-experience surveys, there were statistically significant differences for 11 of 15 questions (73%). The composite score increased from 3.8 (SD = 0.44) to 4.2 (SD = 0.47) (P < .0001). Knowledge and Attitude subscale scores also increased, from 4.0 (SD = 0.5) to 4.38 (SD = 0.5) (P < .0001) and 3.6 (SD = 0.5) to 3.93 (SD = 0.5) (P < .0001), respectively. Students reported favorable impressions of the video, with 87% agreeing that the video was helpful to learners and 79% disagreeing that a lecture would be preferable to the video. No differences in scores by sex or intended specialty were observed. CONCLUSION The FPP video demonstrates promise as a tool for enhancing both knowledge of and positive, empathic attitudes toward fibromyalgia in medical learners. It may serve as a useful resource for educators looking to further develop their clinical pain management curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Stuart Leeds
- Department of Family Medicine, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Evan M Sommer
- Department of Family Medicine, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Wyatt J Andrasik
- Department of Family Medicine, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation Dermatology Residency Program, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kareem M Atwa
- Department of Family Medicine, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
- Bethesda Family Medicine Residency Program, TriHealth, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Timothy N Crawford
- Department of Family Medicine, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, USA
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Haines C, Loades M, Davis C. Illness perceptions in adolescents with chronic fatigue syndrome and other physical health conditions: Application of the common sense model. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2019; 24:546-563. [PMID: 30770020 PMCID: PMC7100035 DOI: 10.1177/1359104519829796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The common sense model (CSM) proposes that illness perceptions guide coping and illness management, which subsequently affects outcomes. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is associated with severe functional impairment. CFS is distinct from other physical health conditions in that individuals can experience high levels of uncertainty, stigma and disbelief from others. This study aimed to compare illness perceptions in adolescents with CFS with other physical health conditions, using a cross-sectional, between-groups design. METHODS Adolescents (aged 11-18) with CFS (n = 49), type 1 diabetes (n = 52) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (n = 42) were recruited through National Health Service (NHS) clinics and online, and completed a series of questionnaires. RESULTS Adolescents with CFS differed on the perceived consequences, timeline, personal control, treatment control, identity and understanding dimensions of illness perceptions. Except for identity, these dimensions were predicted by health condition even when accounting for age, gender, fatigue, physical functioning, anxiety and depression. CONCLUSIONS Results offer preliminary evidence for the applicability of the CSM in adolescents, with implications for supporting adolescents with physical health conditions. Results suggest that psychological interventions targeting perceived control, understanding and identity may have particular utility for adolescents with CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara Haines
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK
| | - Maria Loades
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK.,2 Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Cara Davis
- 1 Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK
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Blease C, Geraghty KJ. Are ME/CFS Patient Organizations "Militant"? : Patient Protest in a Medical Controversy. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2018; 15:393-401. [PMID: 29971693 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-018-9866-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a contested illness category. This paper investigates the common claim that patients with ME/CFS-and by extension, ME/CFS patient organizations (POs)-exhibit "militant" social and political tendencies. The paper opens with a history of the protracted scientific disagreement over ME/CFS. We observe that ME/CFS POs, medical doctors, and medical researchers exhibit clear differences in opinion over how to conceptualize this illness. However, we identify a common trope in the discourse over ME/CFS: the claim of "militant" patient activism. Scrutinizing this charge, we find no compelling evidence that the vast majority of patients with ME/CFS, or the POs representing them, have adopted any such militant political policies or behaviours. Instead, we observe key strategic similarities between ME/CFS POs in the United Kingdom and the AIDs activist organizations of the mid-1980s in the United States which sought to engage scientists using the platform of public activism and via scientific publications. Finally, we explore the contours of disagreement between POs and the medical community by drawing on the concept of epistemic injustice. We find that widespread negative stereotyping of patients and the marginalization and exclusion of patient voices by medical authorities provides a better explanation for expressions of frustration among patients with ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Blease
- General Medicine and Primary Care Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Keith J Geraghty
- Centre for Primary Care, Institute of Population Health, School of Community Based Medicine, University of Manchester, 7.29, Williamson Building, Brunswick Street, Manchester, M13 9PL, USA
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Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a challenging long-term condition (LTC) with complex and fluctuating symptoms. It is heterogeneous in presentation without diagnostic indicators; therefore, in health care encounters, insight must be gained from the patient's perspective. One indicator of impact can be gained by measuring quality of life (QoL). By applying a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM), professionals can gather insights with direct relevance to the patient questioned. Such a tool can act therapeutically tool to promote holistic and individualized professional interventions and interval measurement can inform commissioning of specialist services. Standard practice appears not fully to capture the experience of CFS, while a search of the literature turned up QoL patient-reported outcome tools, but failed to reveal a CFS/ME-specific measure. The author explores a valid and reliable PROM that can monitor change and evaluate the UK National Institute of Clinical Excellence rehabilitation program, as delivered by specialist National Health Service units. An alternative, the World Health Organization's quality-of life instrument (WHOQoL)-Bref26, is reviewed for relevance to the condition, measuring treatment outcomes and the wider debate of measuring QoL in LTCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deb Roberts
- Liverpool CFS Therapy Service, Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals, Liverpool, UK,
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13
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Devendorf AR, McManimen SL, Jason LA. Suicidal ideation in non-depressed individuals: The effects of a chronic, misunderstood illness. J Health Psychol 2018; 25:2106-2117. [PMID: 29992837 DOI: 10.1177/1359105318785450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic illness is a risk factor for suicide but is often explained with depression. Research has shown an increased suicide rate in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome, but specific risk factors have been unexplored. We qualitatively analyzed responses from 29 patients who endorsed suicidal ideation but did not meet depression criteria. Two themes were developed: (1) feeling trapped and (2) loss of self, loss of others, stigma and conflict. Myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome caused patients severe disability, restructured their lives, and inflicted serious pain. Participants emphasized that they were not depressed, but felt trapped by the lack of treatments available.
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Joyce E, Cowing J, Lazarus C, Smith C, Zenzuck V, Peters S. Training tomorrow's doctors to explain 'medically unexplained' physical symptoms: An examination of UK medical educators' views of barriers and solutions. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2018; 101:878-884. [PMID: 29203082 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2017.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Co-occuring physical symptoms, unexplained by organic pathology (known as Functional Syndromes, FS), are common and disabling presentations. However, FS is absent or inconsistently taught within undergraduate medical training. This study investigates the reasons for this and identifies potential solutions to improved implementation. METHODS Twenty-eight medical educators from thirteen different UK medical schools participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis proceeded iteratively, and in parallel with data production. RESULTS Barriers to implementing FS training are beliefs about the complexity of FS, tutors' negative attitudes towards FS, and FS being perceived as a low priority for the curriculum. In parallel participants recognised FS as ubiquitous within medical practice and erroneously assumed it must be taught by someone. They recommended that students should learn about FS through managed exposure, but only if tutors' negative attitudes and behaviour are also addressed. CONCLUSION Negative attitudes towards FS by educators prevents designing and delivering effective education on this common medical presentation. Whilst there is recognition of the need to implement FS training, recommendations are multifaceted. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Increased liaison between students, patients and educators is necessary to develop more informed and effective teaching methods for trainee doctors about FS and in order to minimise the impact of the hidden curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmeline Joyce
- Manchester Centre of Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Greater Manchester, UK; The Psychosis Research Unit, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Greater Manchester, UK
| | - Jennifer Cowing
- Manchester Centre of Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Greater Manchester, UK
| | - Candice Lazarus
- Manchester Centre of Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Greater Manchester, UK
| | - Charlotte Smith
- Manchester Centre of Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Greater Manchester, UK
| | - Victoria Zenzuck
- Manchester Centre of Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Greater Manchester, UK
| | - Sarah Peters
- Manchester Centre of Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Greater Manchester, UK.
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Silverwood V, Chew-Graham C, Raybould I, Thomas B, Peters S. 'If it's a medical issue I would have covered it by now': learning about fibromyalgia through the hidden curriculum: a qualitative study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2017; 17:160. [PMID: 28899390 PMCID: PMC5596866 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-017-0972-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a long-term condition that affects between 1 and 5% of the general population and lies within the spectrum of medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). FMS can be difficult to diagnose and is usually done so as a diagnosis of exclusion. There is continuing debate regarding its legitimacy excluding other causes of symptoms. It is known that the diagnosis and management of MUS, including FMS, receives little attention in medical curricula and attitudes towards patients with FMS amongst medical professionals and trainees can be negative. The purpose of this study was to investigate how attitudes and perspectives of undergraduate medical students towards FMS are acquired during their training. METHODS Qualitative interviews with 21 medical students were conducted to explore their views on FMS, encounters with patients with FMS, and where learning about FMS occurs. Participants were recruited from two English medical schools and the study was approved by two University Ethics committees. Interviews were digitally recorded with consent and data analysed thematically, using principles of constant comparison. RESULTS The data were organised within three themes: i) FMS is a complex, poorly understood condition; ii) multiple sources for learning about FMS; and iii) consequences of negative attitudes for patients with FMS. CONCLUSION Undergraduate medical students have limited understanding of, and are sceptical over the existence of FMS. These attitudes are influenced by the 'hidden curriculum' and witnessing attitudes and actions of their clinical teachers. Students interpret a lack of formal curriculum teaching around FMS to mean that it is not serious and hence a low priority. Encountering a patient, friend or family member with FMS can increase knowledge and lead to altered perceptions of the condition. Teaching and learning about FMS needs to be consistent to improve knowledge and attitudes of clinicians. Undergraduate students should be exposed to patients with FMS so that they better understand patients with FMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. Silverwood
- Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University, Newcastle, Staffordshire ST5 5BG UK
| | - C.A. Chew-Graham
- Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University, Newcastle, Staffordshire ST5 5BG UK
- West Midlands CLAHRC, Westminster, Staffordshire UK
| | - I. Raybould
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Manchester University, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - B. Thomas
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Manchester University, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - S. Peters
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Manchester University, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
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16
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Blease C, Carel H, Geraghty K. Epistemic injustice in healthcare encounters: evidence from chronic fatigue syndrome. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2017; 43:549-557. [PMID: 27920164 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2016-103691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) remains a controversial illness category. This paper surveys the state of knowledge and attitudes about this illness and proposes that epistemic concerns about the testimonial credibility of patients can be articulated using Miranda Fricker's concept of epistemic injustice. While there is consensus within mainstream medical guidelines that there is no known cause of CFS/ME, there is continued debate about how best to conceive of CFS/ME, including disagreement about how to interpret clinical studies of treatments. Against this background, robust qualitative and quantitative research from a range of countries has found that many doctors (and medical students) display uncertainty about whether CFS/ME is real, which may result in delays in diagnosis and treatment for patients. Strikingly, qualitative research evinces that patients with CFS/ME often experience suspicion by healthcare professionals, and many patients vocally oppose the effectiveness, and the conceptualisation, of their illness as psychologically treatable. We address the intersection of these issues and healthcare ethics, and claim that this state of affairs can be explained as a case of epistemic injustice (2007). We find evidence that healthcare consultations are fora where patients with CFS/ME may be particularly vulnerable to epistemic injustice. We argue that the (often unintentional) marginalisation of many patients is a professional failure that may lead to further ethical and practical consequences both for progressive research into CFS/ME, and for ethical care and delivery of current treatments among individuals suffering from this debilitating illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Blease
- School of Philosophy, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Program in Placebo Studies, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, USA
| | - Havi Carel
- School of Philosophy, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Keith Geraghty
- Centre for Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Broughton J, Harris S, Beasant L, Crawley E, Collin SM. Adult patients' experiences of NHS specialist services for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME): a qualitative study in England. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:384. [PMID: 28576141 PMCID: PMC5457632 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2337-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have explored patients' experiences of treatment for CFS/ME. This study aims to fill this gap by capturing the perspective of patients who have been treated by NHS specialist CFS/ME services in England. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted during the period June-September 2014 with 16 adults who were completing treatment at one of three outpatient NHS specialist CFS/ME services. Interviews were analysed thematically using constant comparison techniques, with particular attention paid to contrasting views. RESULTS Three themes were identified: 'Journey to specialist services'; 'Things that help or hinder treatment'; and 'Support systems'. Within these themes nine sub-themes were identified. A wide range of factors was evident in forming participants' experiences, including personal characteristics such as perseverance and optimism, and service factors such as flexibility and positive, supportive relationships with clinicians. Participants described how specialist services played a unique role, which was related to the contested nature of the condition. Many participants had experienced a lack of validation and medical and social support before attending a specialist service. Patients' experiences of life before referral, and the concerns that they expressed about being discharged, highlighted the hardship and obstacles which people living with CFS/ME continue to experience in our society. CONCLUSIONS The experiences of CFS/ME patients in our study showed that NHS specialist CFS/ME services played a vital role in patients' journeys towards an improved quality of life. This improvement came about through a process which included validation of patients' experiences, acceptance of change, practical advice and support, and therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Broughton
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, 10 West, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Sarah Harris
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, 10 West, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Lucy Beasant
- School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Esther Crawley
- School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Simon M Collin
- School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol, BS8 2BN, UK.
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Peters S, Goldthorpe J, McElroy C, King E, Javidi H, Tickle M, Aggarwal VR. Managing chronic orofacial pain: A qualitative study of patients', doctors', and dentists' experiences. Br J Health Psychol 2015; 20:777-91. [DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Peters
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology; School of Psychological Sciences; University of Manchester; UK
| | | | | | - Elizabeth King
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology; School of Psychological Sciences; University of Manchester; UK
| | - Hanieh Javidi
- School of Clinical Dentistry; University of Sheffield; UK
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19
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Bayliss K, Goodall M, Chisholm A, Fordham B, Chew-Graham C, Riste L, Fisher L, Lovell K, Peters S, Wearden A. Overcoming the barriers to the diagnosis and management of chronic fatigue syndrome/ME in primary care: a meta synthesis of qualitative studies. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2014; 15:44. [PMID: 24606913 PMCID: PMC3973969 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2296-15-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The NICE guideline for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) emphasises the need for an early diagnosis in primary care with management tailored to patient needs. However, GPs can be reluctant to make a diagnosis and are unsure how to manage people with the condition. METHODS A meta synthesis of published qualitative studies was conducted, producing a multi-perspective description of barriers to the diagnosis and management of CFS/ME, and the ways that some health professionals have been able to overcome them. Analysis provided second-order interpretation of the original findings and developed third-order constructs to provide recommendations for the medical curriculum. RESULTS Twenty one qualitative studies were identified. The literature shows that for over 20 years health professionals have reported a limited understanding of CFS/ME. Working within the framework of the biomedical model has also led some GPs to be sceptical about the existence of the condition. GPs who provide a diagnosis tend to have a broader, multifactorial, model of the condition and more positive attitudes towards CFS/ME. These GPs collaborate with patients to reach agreement on symptom management, and use their therapeutic skills to promote self care. CONCLUSIONS In order to address barriers to the diagnosis and management of CFS/ME in primary care, the limitations of the biomedical model needs to be recognised. A more flexible bio-psychosocial approach is recommended where medical school training aims to equip practitioners with the skills needed to understand, support and manage patients and provide a pathway to refer for specialist input.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerin Bayliss
- Institute of Population Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mark Goodall
- Institute of Psychology, Health and Society, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anna Chisholm
- Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Beth Fordham
- Institute of Inflammation and Repair, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Carolyn Chew-Graham
- Primary Care and Health Sciences and National School for Primary Care Research, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Lisa Riste
- Institute of Population Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Louise Fisher
- National School for Primary Care Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Karina Lovell
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sarah Peters
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alison Wearden
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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