Supporting self-management in chronic pain through eHealth – exploring the needs, challenges and solutions in general practice: a qualitative and participatory study

Digital transformation and integration of eHealth solutions into chronic pain management faces significant challenges that have not yet been met. The objective of this study is to explore the challenges, barriers, needs, and solutions experienced by patients and general practitioners (GPs) in the context of an eHealth solution designed for chronic pain management in general practice. The study used action-research as a methodological framework. We conducted two future workshops involving eight patients living with chronic pain and seven GPs with clinical experience in managing chronic pain. Through case vignettes and inspiration cards, the workshops stimulated discussions and shared construction of knowledge. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, separated by the groups, and were synthesized via a matrix analysis. The analysis revealed five content summary themes: Theme 1-patients’ experience of challenges in life with pain; Theme 2-challenges in treating patients with chronic pain; Theme 3-patients’ suggestions for the structure of the eHealth solution; Theme 4-GP’ suggestions for the structure of the eHealth solution; and Theme 5-differences and similarities: Visions for an eHealth solution. Our study represents a significant advancement in developing personalized and innovative eHealth solutions for general practice, addressing key clinical challenges. eHealth tools have gained more attention in general practice and chronic pain management because they have the potential to strengthen supported self-management.Using participatory methods, this study identified important needs, gaps, and perspectives that can inform more personalized digital solutions for chronic pain.Our study highlights the importance of clinicians being attentive to patients’ unique needs and ensuring these are incorporated into consultations and treatment.Our findings show that patients and clinicians may have different perspectives on management needs, such as patient education, so healthcare professionals should actively involve patients in care to provide effective support for self-management. eHealth tools have gained more attention in general practice and chronic pain management because they have the potential to strengthen supported self-management. Using participatory methods, this study identified important needs, gaps, and perspectives that can inform more personalized digital solutions for chronic pain. Our study highlights the importance of clinicians being attentive to patients’ unique needs and ensuring these are incorporated into consultations and treatment. Our findings show that patients and clinicians may have different perspectives on management needs, such as patient education, so healthcare professionals should actively involve patients in care to provide effective support for self-management.