The overall objective of this study is to quantify adherence to medical recommendations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis(RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) from diverse ethnic backgrounds, and to determine which are its predictors and outcomes, with an emphasis on psychosocial factors and medical interaction issues. We will: a) compare attitudes and behaviors toward adherence to treatment in patients with RA and SLE from diverse ethnic backgrounds; b) assess the role of patient beliefs, expectations and attitudes about their disease on their adherence to treatment; c) assess the role of selected elements of the medical interaction on patient compliance with recommendations; d) evaluate ethnic differences in compliance in the context of a modified Health Belief Model (HBM); e) determine the impact of non-compliance on patient outcomes.
Please note the subject population is entirely comprised of Non- UT MDACC patients and no patients will be seen at UT MDACC. Dr. Suarez's role in the study as a UT MDACC faculty member will be limited to data management, analysis of data and publications resulting from these analyses. Please note that no psychosocial interview, no treatment, no diagnosis and laboratory will be done on any UT MDACC patients or faculty.All patients have enrolled in the study and signed the consent forms. In Phase 2 of this study, ongoing study follow-up visits will continue at the following facilities: Michael E. DeBakey VA Hospital, LBJ Hospital, LBJ Hospital and Ben Taub Hospital. The study will follow-up with patients at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 month visits.All data is de-identified and coded to maintain confidentiality of patient information. All study files and tapes will be maintained in a locked file cabinet and per NIH timelines and requirements all files and tapes will be maintained for 7 years. |