Professionals experiences managing patients/clients with PTSD and MUPS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
What are the experiences of Health and Social Care professionals who manage patients/clients who may have Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms (MUPS)?
IRAS ID
306361
Contact name
Jonathan Bisson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 24 days
Research summary
Although most people experience traumatic stress during their lives and recover, a substantial number of people go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Physical symptoms are common in the community and can arise in the presence or absence of disease. Physical symptoms not explained by disease are described by numerous terms, which includes medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS). Up to an estimated 45% of people presenting to their GP and 50% of people attending hospital appointments have symptoms that are deemed to be unexplained. Research suggests people with PTSD have high levels of MUPS as well as various physical conditions such as heart disease, and mental health problems such as depression. Both PTSD and MUPS are associated with considerable disability and long term unemployment with significant costs to the economy.
The frequent link between PTSD, MUPS, various physical diseases and mental health disorders can lead to diagnostic uncertainty resulting in anxiety for patient and professional alike, with increased risk of missing serious disease and inappropriate care. There is no formal healthcare pathway for patients/clients with PTSD, MUPS and associated conditions in Wales.
The proposed research aims to complement a previous qualitative study on the patient journey experiences of people with PTSD and MUPS. This will be achieved by investigating the professional experiences of health and social care practitioners in Wales who manage people who may have both conditions. A diverse group of 10-15 health and social care professionals will be interviewed about their involvement with people who may have PTSD and MUPS. Findings from this study will hopefully inform further research to support service and professional development, and provide education for patients/clients with PTSD, MUPS and associated conditions, to improve understanding for all involved with their care.
REC name
N/A
REC reference
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