What Informs the Choices Young People Living With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Make About Their Care? A Qualitative Analysis of Focus Groups With Young People in Australia

Abstract

Purpose: To explore how lived and care experiences of young people (aged 16–24 years) who experience chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) influence their choices about CMP care, and how and where a digital health solution (DHS) could support their care. Methods: A cross-sectional, exploratory qualitative study involving 20 young people (16–24 years) experiencing CMP. Eight focus groups were conducted, guided by a focus group schedule. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Three main themes emerged describing young people’s experiences and CMP care choices. For each main theme we identified how a DHS could support their care: (1) “Experiences of living with and managing their CMP.” A DHS could buffer self-care needs by providing timely support and creating a sense of community. (2) “Experiences with healthcare providers and healthcare services.” An app-based DHS could potentially help to coordinate CMP care and support health services navigation. (3) “Young people’s choices about their CMP care options.” DHSs can support young people prioritize their CMP care options. Conclusions: Understanding young people’s values, alongside their care needs is critical to delivering person-centred care. A tailored DHS can value-add to young people’s CMP care by helping to minimize the burden of self-care, health service navigation and interactions with healthcare providers.