Design and development of an e-learning patient education program for self-management support in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE: To develop an e-learning education program targeting patients with rheumatoid arthritis. METHODS: The development process involved content specification and creative design. It was theoretically framed within theories of multimedia learning and entertainment-education and empirically based on evidence of patient education in rheumatoid arthritis and focus group discussions with stakeholders. We conducted a feasibility test among ten patients to assess the acceptability and usability of the program, and to identify areas to be adjusted. RESULTS: The following themes for educational needs were found in focus group discussions: “Knowledge of rheumatoid arthritis,” he disease course and prognosis,” “Medical treatment,” “A new life situation” and “Daily life with rheumatoid arthritis.” Based on this, an e-learning program covering the disease course, examinations, treatment, and daily life, was created. It combines animations, videos, podcasts, text, speech, and tests. Test persons found the program feasible—that is, clear in content and easy to understand with a suitable pace and coherence between graphics, speech, and text. CONCLUSION: This e-learning program is based on solid theoretical knowledge that meets users' needs and is easy to use. INNOVATION: This study contributes to the innovation of health care by the development of a new digital tool for patient education.