Analysis of needs of patients with idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head: using focus group interviews.

AIM: The current needs of patients with idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head were analyzed for the purpose of seeking effective support programs that would maintain and improve the quality of life of the patients.

METHODS

A focus group interview method was used to collect data. Interviewees included eight patients. They were asked about their opinions and needs with respect to medicine, health care, and welfare.

RESULTS

Overall, four needs were revealed as particularly significant: information needs, decision-making in the absence of pre-established treatment, psychological support, and sufficient medical healthcare institutions.

CONCLUSION

These four needs are useful for the foundation of future support systems, whose main concerns will be: counseling support for patients with idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head, currently adopted institutions, and resources that may be required in the future.