Perspectives of patients with osteoarthritis for using digital technology in rehabilitation at a public community centre in the Cape Metropole area: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the perspectives of people with osteoarthritis (OA) on the use of digital technology into their rehabilitation program, including their awareness, views on accessibility, affordability and willingness to accept digital modalities for rehabilitation delivery. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive design was conducted. Patients with OA who receive care at a public community rehabilitation centre in the Western Cape, South Africa were eligible to participants. Semi-structured interviewed were conducted and Atlas.ti 23 software was used for thematic analysis. Results: The findings showed that the participants had limited awareness and exposure to telerehabilitation (TR), along with minimal digital literacy and skills. They were sceptical about the effectiveness of TR and concerned about the inherent lack of physical interactions with health professionals. However, some acknowledged TR's potential benefits for accessibility, convenience, family involvement and long-term community health improvement. Participants were willing to learn more about TR. Conclusion: Considering the benefits of TR in lower resource settings such as South Africa, investment to increase awareness and patient education and training in TR may assist in enhancing access and quality of care. Resources dedicated to TR and management buy-in in low-and-middle income countries (LMICs) is necessary to facilitate the fit-for-context roll-out of TR.