Identifying training and informational components to develop a psoriasis self- management application

Psoriasis is a complex disease with lifelong emotional and social consequences for affected patients. It also reduces the patients’ quality of life and requires a long-term management. Therefore, in addition to appropriate treatment of the disease, self-management strategies to improve patient health and quality of life are essential. On the other hand, smartphone-based applications alter the way people interact with health care and public health systems. This study aimed at identifying training and informational components to develop a psoriasis self- management application.

This descriptive-analytic study was conducted on 100 patients with psoriasis and 26 dermatologists who were selected randomly, using Morgan table. The data were collected using a researcher- made questionnaire, which included demographic and clinical information, lifestyle training and management, and application capabilities in psoriasis self-management. A group of experts and a test-retest method were used to confirm the validity and reliability of the questionnaire, respectively.

The mean scores for demographic and clinical information, lifestyle training and management, and application capabilities in self-management were 80.55%, 85.7%, and 88.8% from the patients’ perspective, and 83.7%, 71%, and 75% from the specialists’ viewpoint, respectively.

Determining self-management components by patients as persons who are suffering from the disease and physicians as specialists in the field will be helpful in efficient psoriasis self-management. It is more likely that self-reliant patients, who are aware of the benefits and risks of their disease management application, will follow their treatment plan and pursue the management of their disease more seriously.