Evidence suggesting that health education for self‐management in patients with chronic arthritis has sustained health benefits while reducing health care costs

Objective. To determine the effects of the Arthritis Self‐Management Program 4 years after participation in it. Methods. Valid self‐administered instruments were used to measure health status, psychological states, and health service utilization. Results. Pain had declined a mean of 20% and visits to physicians 40%, while physical disability had increased 9%. Comparison groups did not show similar changes. Estimated 4‐year savings were $648 per rheumatoid arthritis patient and $189 per osteoarthritis patient. Conclusion. Health education in chronic arthritis may add significant and sustained benefits to conventional therapy while reducing costs.