The effect of a distance-learning programme on patient self-management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) in general practice: A randomised controlled trial

René Wolters*, Michel Wensing, Chris Van Weel, Richard Grol

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether a distance-learning programme on LUTS provided to the general practitioner affected patient self-management. Methods: A randomised trial was performed to examine the effects of the distance-learning programme (an educational package for the GP and a patient information leaflet) compared with written guidelines on LUTS mailed to the GP. In 63 general practices (32 intervention and 31 control) across the Netherlands all patients older than 50 years presenting LUTS for the first time were invited to participate. Main outcome measures were patient evaluation of quality of care received and perceptions of enablement. Results: A total of 151 patients was included. The intervention increased patient enablement regarding maintenance of independence (OR=3.14) and coping with illness (OR=2.21). Overall enablement scores were not changed. Patients in the intervention group had more positive evaluations of general practice care received (OR=2.28 to 3.95). An explorative analysis suggested that the effects of the intervention were mediated in particular by handing out of patient information leaflets. Conclusions: A distance-learning programme on LUTS for general practitioners had positive effects on patient self-management. Handing out leaflets appeared to be a crucial mediating factor.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)95-101
Number of pages7
JournalEuropean Urology
Volume46
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2004
Externally publishedYes

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