Amigos de Fibro (Fibro Friends): development of an educational program for the health promotion of fibromyalgia patients

Abstract

Background: Educational practices are indicated to promote the health of people with fibromyalgia in primary health care. We aimed to develop an educative interdisciplinary program intended at the health promotion of individuals with fibromyalgia.

Methods: It is a study protocol that was developed following three phases in the city of São Paulo city, Brazil. Qualitative research was carried out, through a focal group, with 12 individuals with fibromyalgia and 10 health professionals. A thematic content analysis was made according to the content proposed by Bardin.

Results: Fibro Friends is an interdisciplinary program with educational approaches that must be performed in 15 meetings, once a week for 1 h and 20 min. Participants were the following professionals: a Physiotherapist, a Doctor, a Psychologist, a Nutritionist, a Nurse, a Pharmacist/Druggist, a Speech Therapist, an Occupational Therapist, a Naturopath, and a Social Worker. A physical exercise program will also be carried out. The professionals must discuss in a lecture, conversation hearing, and/or group dynamic, about strategies to promote health and pain control in fibromyalgia.

Conclusion: Fibro Friends is a program presenting educational interdisciplinary information to individuals with fibromyalgia, being considered a trend to future care. Fibro Friends is a practical guide, logical, and efficient to patients with fibromyalgia at the basic attention to health.

Keywords: Fibromyalgia; health education; health promotion; patient-centered care.