Flares in Axial Spondyloarthritis - Treating with Effective Resources (FASTER) feasibility study.
People with Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) frequently experience increases in symptoms (flares) related to pain, stiffness, and fatigue. These flares can be caused by different factors and therefore treatment might require different approaches e.g. physiotherapy for increases in physical restriction, changes in medication to reduce inflammation.
However, as Rheumatology departments are now requesting that patients arrange appointments when they feel they need one, rather than coming in for regular check-ups, we need to ensure we maintain safe, high-quality services which patients feel empowered to access. This can be difficult to achieve, as some people are not always sure when their symptoms require a Rheumatology visit.
A potential way to ensure the right care is accessed at the right time is through remote monitoring. Patients can complete electronic online clinical tools which measure certain aspects of their health on a regular basis and if any changes are identified, then the patient can be automatically prompted to seek help, or the Rheumatology department can reach out.