Outcomes in patients with chronic uveitis: which factors matter to patients? A qualitative study

Outcome measurements currently used in chronic uveitis care fail to cover the full patient perspective. The aim of this study is to develop a conceptual model of the factors that adult patients with chronic uveitis consider to be important when evaluating the impact of their disease and treatment. A qualitative study design was used. Twenty chronic uveitis patients were recruited to participate in two focus groups. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis in ATLAS.ti. Coding of the transcripts resulted in a total of 19 codes divided over five themes: 1) disease symptoms and treatment; 2) diagnosis and treatment process; 3) impact on daily functioning; 4) emotional impact; and 5) treatment success factors. The conceptual model resulting from this study can contribute to the development of future uveitis specific measures in adults.