Pos0112-Pare Patients’ Perspectives on the Quality of Care in Rheumatic Diseases in Finland – Findings From a 1,808-Person Survey

Background: Finnish healthcare system is currently undergoing its most significant structural change in 30 years. This has caused worry and confusion in many people living with rheumatic diseases. The Finnish Rheumatism Association carried out a survey on patients' experiences on quality of and access to care. The patient survey had 1 808 respondents and its results were used in a campaign for improved access to care. Objectives: The survey aimed to collect insights into patients' perspectives on their healthcare aspects such as satisfaction with care quality, the level of information patients had about their ongoing care, and their awareness of whom to contact in case of deteriorating health. These findings formed the basis for advocating for improved access to healthcare. Methods: The survey was commissioned from a research company with extensive experience on healthcare research. The survey questionnaire was designed jointly with experts from the Finnish Rheumatism Association and the research company. Information about the survey was disseminated online to members of the Finnish Rheumatism Association and other people with rheumatic diseases. The online survey, with 33 questions, was open in from May 22nd to June 7th, 2023. The results were first analysed by data analyst at the research company, and later in depth by experts in Rheumatism Association Results: Approximately half of the patients are quite satisfied with their treatment, while on the other hand, about a third have indicated that they are not completely satisfied. The survey brought to light several points of concern in the healthcare system, most severe being the point when patient's care is transferred from specialized healthcare to primary care. Many patients were not aware that they must initiate the contact themselves. Another concern was that of how to get results from routine laboratory tests. Over half of patients checked their laboratory results independently from online sources only, with no support from healthcare professionals. One in ten did not know how to find out their results. Only one in five had a clear understanding of how their treatment progresses when transitioning from specialized care to primary healthcare. For 41,6 percent, it was unclear. Conclusion: When compared with results from a similar survey from five years ago, there was improvement in the number of respondents familiar with their treatment plan. In 2018, only 29,5 percent stated they knew their own treatment plan, in 2023 the number had risen to 48,4 percent. While knowledge about treatment plans had increased, there were several points of concern in access to care. Especially people with several long-term conditions reported recurring problems, and they felt no instance took responsibility for their overall care. Based on the survey, patient participation in treatment appears to be correlated with patient satisfaction, consequently leading to a positive experience with the management of rheumatoid arthritis. The survey findings were shared online, in press releases and in a webinar, that included panel discussion. The October panel was moderated by a renowned TV-news anchor. The panelists included the second deputy speaker of the Finnish Parliament, with comments from another MP. In December, the survey results were presented to MPs in the RMD working group. REFERENCES: NIL. Acknowledgements: NIL. Disclosure of Interests: None declared.