Patient Experiences in Managing Chronic Illness After the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquake in Türkiye: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study is to determine the experiences of individuals with chronic illnesses related to managing their illnesses after the February 6, 2023, Kahramanmaraş earthquake in Türkiye. This study was conducted using phenomenological methodology. The study employed purposeful and criterion sampling, and 12 participants were included. Data were collected using an in-depth interview technique and a semi-structured interview form. The data obtained showed that the central theme of the study was the earthquake process and that the data was analyzed in three categories: factors affecting illness management, changes in health status, and methods of coping with problems. Various problems are experienced regarding managing chronic illnesses in the post-earthquake period. These problems leave short- or long-term adverse effects on the individual or social level.