Exploring people-centred healthcare in arthritis care: a qualitative study

Xing, Yaohan and Aftab, Mersha and Brooke, Joanne (2026) Exploring people-centred healthcare in arthritis care: a qualitative study. BMC Health Services Research, 26 (1). ISSN 1472-6963

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Abstract

Background

Arthritis encompasses a group of chronic musculoskeletal conditions that may involve pain, functional limitations, and impacts on quality of life. People-centred care, encompassing both person- and patient centred principles has been recognised by the World Health Organisation as an essential strategy to address the complex needs of individuals with chronic illness. However, existing research remains limited in capturing how people with arthritis perceive and experience people-centred healthcare across different stages of their care experiences. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of people with arthritis to develop a conceptual framework of people-centred arthritis care.
Methods

A qualitative design was employed, informed by principles of design thinking. Seven participants with a confirmed diagnosis of arthritis and at least three years of experience of accessing UK health services were recruited through online arthritis- related support groups and a national charity. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams, transcribed verbatim, and anonymised. Data were analysed using a combination of journey mapping, framework analysis, and thematic analysis, guided by an interpretive phenomenological and design thinking orientation.
Results

Findings identified participants experienced healthcare journeys as cyclical rather than linear, characterised by four interconnected stages: needs identification, information acquisition, service utilisation, and continuity and coordination of care. Across these stages, six key features of people-centred care were identified: the importance of personalised health management, information access and self-education, the role of community groups in providing support, communication and resource challenges within the healthcare system, the influence of economic factors on service accessibility, and the impact of continuous and timely support on experience. Participants highlighted the value of being recognised as active agents in their care, while also identifying structural and systemic barriers that limited responsiveness and trust.
Conclusions

This study demonstrates people-centred healthcare for arthritis requires flexible, iterative approaches that respond to fluctuating symptoms, personal circumstances, and long-term support needs. Incorporating the perspectives of people with arthritis into service design can enhance continuity, equity, and empowerment, with potential implications for wider models of chronic care.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.1186/s12913-026-14303-w
Dates:	Date Event 26 February 2026 Accepted 9 March 2026 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	People-centred care, Arthritis care, Qualitative research, Care experience
Subjects:	CAH02 - subjects allied to medicine > CAH02-04 - nursing and midwifery > CAH02-04-01 - nursing (non-specific)
Divisions:	Architecture, Built Environment, Computing and Engineering > Architecture and Built Environment > Architecture Nursing and Midwifery > Adult Nursing
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	18 May 2026 10:17
Last Modified:	18 May 2026 10:17
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/17054

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