Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with considerable physical and psychosocial distress. Recent studies have reported low levels of satisfaction among patients with HS regarding the medical care of their condition. The objective of the study was to identify modifiable determinants of low satisfaction with HS care from both patient and dermatologist perspectives. This prospective, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among patients with HS and, for comparison, among those with psoriasis, as well as their treating dermatologists, in 20 dermatological centres in Germany. A total of 257 patients and 76 dermatologists participated in the study. The proportion of patients reporting high satisfaction with care for their skin disease (scores > 8 on a 0–10 scale) was 30.7% for HS and 69.4% for psoriasis (P < 0.001). The proportion of dermatologists highly satisfied with medical care for HS and psoriasis was 0.0% and 38.9%, respectively (P < 0.001). Multiple regression modelling revealed that satisfaction with pharmacotherapy was the primary predictor of medical care satisfaction for both patients and dermatologists. Experience with systemic antibiotics was associated with lower patient satisfaction regarding pharmacotherapy, while satisfaction tended to be higher when patients had experienced therapy with biologics. Another significant determinant of patient satisfaction with medical care was the provision of information about HS by dermatologists, which was linked to consultations occurring at least quarterly and lasting ≥ 20 min. No association was observed between disease severity and the identified determinants of patient satisfaction with medical care. Dermatologists' satisfaction with medical care was additionally linked with the perceived availability of referral options to other dermatological facilities. Improvements in patient satisfaction with HS care may be achieved through enhanced patient education about the disease and regular dermatologist consultations; however, optimal HS management ultimately requires effective pharmacological treatment. drks.de, DRKS00031572. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a common, long-term skin condition that causes inflammation and painful lumps that may break open and drain pus, usually in areas such as the armpits and groin. It can lead to scarring and has a strong impact on a person's daily life and emotional well-being. Many people with HS are not satisfied with the medical care they receive. Our aim was to understand which factors make people with HS feel satisfied or dissatisfied with their care. To do this, we surveyed both people living with HS and their dermatologists (skin doctors). We also included people with another chronic skin condition, psoriasis, for comparison. Our study involved 20 dermatology practices and clinics in Germany. We found that only about 31 out of 100 people with HS were very satisfied with their care, compared to 69 out of 100 people with psoriasis. None of the dermatologists were satisfied with the medical care for HS, but about 39% were satisfied with the medical care for psoriasis. For both patients and doctors, being satisfied with medication was the most important factor. For patients, having a dermatologist who takes the time to explain the disease and treatment options—especially during longer and regular visits—also made a large difference in their satisfaction with treatment. For doctors, having clear ways to refer patients to other clinics for further treatment was also important. In summary, we found that good medication is essential, but regular, informative and supportive care from dermatologists also plays a key role in improving satisfaction with HS treatment.
Wolk et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
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