Abstract
Introduction
The aim of this study was to assess patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) opinions on the validity of using a biopsychosocial model rather than a biomedical model in alleviating patient symptoms/pain.
Method
We constructed a questionnaire to assess beliefs on the effectiveness of using a biopsychosocial or biomedical model to develop a treatment plan to optimise patient symptoms/pain. We distributed the questionnaire to new and follow-up patients and healthcare professional in the orthopaedic department.
Results
246 questionnaires were completed - 183 patients and 63 HCPs. The patient group consisted of 77 males and 106 females, the HCP group of 27 males and 36 females. 77(42%) of patients and 9(14%) of HCPs agree the biomedical model is best suited to treat symptoms. 81(44%) of patients and 62(98%) of HCPs agree the biopsychosocial model is best suited to treat symptoms. 70(38%) of patients and 61 (97%) of HCPs agree stress can increase pain. 87(48%) of patients and 62(98%) of HCPs agree distress can increase pain. 83(45%) of patients and 56(89%) of HCPs agree stress can increase disability. 81(44%) of patients and 56(89%) of HCPs agree distress can increase disability. 39(21%) of patients and 43(68%) of HCPs agree if all investigations show no abnormality in explaining symptoms, the main contributor is stress, distress or psychological/socioeconomic factor.
Conclusion
HCPs recognise the biopsychosocial model as a useful tool in managing patients pain/symptoms which not recognised by patients. HCPs believe that stress, distress, psychological/socioeconomic factors have a significant impact on a patients pain and disability when compared to patients.
No conflicts of interest
No funding obtained
