Objectives: To explore the accessibility, usability and relevance of the British Orthodontic Society (BOS) online information resource (OIR), “Your Jaw Surgery”. Design: Qualitative, cross-sectional study. Setting: 5 UK sites. Participants: Patients before, during and after treatment for non-cleft skeletal discrepancy.
Methods: Patients were identified at joint clinics, sent a link to the online information resource “Your Jaw Surgery” and recruited after having time to view the OIR. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 patients (aged 16 – 46 years). Interviews covered the information patients received, and looked for, about orthognathic treatment, and their views of the OIR. The interviews were transcribed and framework analysis was undertaken.
Results: The main themes identified were the overall usefulness, personal relevance and positive perceptions of the OIR. Participants reported the OIR was clearly laid out and easy to use. Having a resource online was appreciated and the information and patient experiences provided were valued. The OIR was seen to be useful for patients considering treatment, and potentially useful for patients undergoing treatment. Participants were looking for a personally relevant resource that would give them the best possible idea of how they would look and feel after surgery. The OIR was perceived as trusted, positive and reassuring.
Conclusions: Patients at different stages of treatment found the OIR helpful and reassuring. Clinicians may find it useful to direct patients to the OIR to complement a professional consultation, but should be aware that patients may perceive it as presenting a positive image of the long-term benefits of orthognathic treatment. Following this research, an evaluation questionnaire has been designed to allow future viewers to feedback and improve the resource.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)