The Influence of Patient-Provider Communication on Self-Management Among Patients With Chronic Illness: A Systematic Mixed Studies Review

Abstract

Aim: To explore the influence of patient-provider communication on patient self-management of chronic illness.

Design: Systematic Mixed Studies Review.

Data sources: CINAHL, Google Scholar, EMBASE and PubMed were searched until March 2024.

Methods: Employed a result-based convergent design and the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool to evaluate studies. Narrative analysis, quantitative studies and thematic analysis for qualitative studies and overall results.

Results: Thirteen articles published between 2003 and 2023 were included. Chronic illnesses studied: diabetes, heart failure, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Data synthesis yielded the overarching theme: adaptive interpersonal communication. An approach that adapts communication content to each patient's unique needs, employs verbal and nonverbal communication, builds a connection and establishes patient rapport.

Conclusion: Available evidence suggests that patient-provider communication influences chronic illness self-management. A provider's ability to adjust and tailor their communication style is an important factor in helping patients to achieve optimal self-management. Future research should explore this phenomenon in other common chronic illnesses not included in this review. Additionally, research on the patient's role in this process could help improve patient-provider communication.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care: Findings from this review have significant implications for shared and participatory decision making, where patients and providers collaborate to develop plans of care for patients to achieve optimal self-management. Additionally, this review can contribute to the development of educational content and communication strategies for nurses and all healthcare professionals caring for patients with chronic illnesses.

Impact: This is the first mixed studies systematic review to describe the influence patient-provider communication on patient self-management of chronic illness. These findings consolidate existing evidence, providing a pathway for practical application to clinical practice and the potential to significantly impact the delivery of patient-centred care and healthcare quality.

Patient or public contribution: No patient or public contribution.

Keywords: chronic illness; patient self‐management; patient–provider communication; self‐care; self‐care management; self‐management.

FIGURE 1

PRISMA diagram: Selection process of included articles.