An exploration of the sequence and nature of treatment options available to people living with osteoarthritis of the hip and/or knee within a New Zealand context.

ML Roberts Prize Winner

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the sequence and nature of treatment options available to people living with osteoarthritis of the hip and/or knee in New Zealand. Twenty-three people living with hip and/or knee joint OA participated in face-to-face interviews about their experiences of OA treatments they were offered and received. All data were analysed thematically. Data analysis led to the identification of three themes, which were, general practitioner (GP) as initial contact; lack of a clear treatment pathway; inconsistent provision of information. Theme 1 highlighted that participants utilised their GP as their initial and primary health care provider for OA management advice. Theme 2 explored participants’ reports of exploring a variety of treatment options for their hip and/or knee joint OA, establishing that there is no clearly defined treatment pathway. Theme 3 identified notions regarding participant education about OA. Analysis indicated that people living with OA are looking for consistent advice and a clear management pathway. The GP was the first health professional that most participants had contacted about their OA, however following this consultation there was no clear identifiable management pathway.