Experiences of a primary health care rehabilitation programme.: A focus group study of persons with chronic pain

Purpose. The objective of the study was to describe participants' experiences of a rehabilitation programme for persons with chronic pain. Method. A qualitative design with focus group methodology was used. The sample consisted of 24 individuals with chronic pain who were divided into six focus groups. The rehabilitation programme, which was led by an occupational therapist and a physiotherapist, took place at a healthcare centre and comprised 12 group sessions. Results. The qualitative themes described the programme as a meaningful place to which to belong and as an encouraging environment. They also included a criticism of the format and content of the programme. The participants had, however, not reflected over their possibility of influencing parts of the programme, as they took for granted that it was predetermined. The themes furthermore described the participants' expectations of being regarded as sick, but also their valuing of their own contribution in taking responsibility for carrying out the programme and for having integrated the content and becoming aware of their limitations. Conclusions. The participants' experiences of the design, content and format of the programme were positioned between two extremes: A passive and an active role; their own responsibility and that of the leaders; weakness and ego-strength; and commitment and lack of commitment.