WHAT DO MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL-ECZEMA-SOCIETY REALLY WANT

In order to assess the impact of eczema on the lives of affected indiv iduals a postal questionnaire was sent to all members of the National Eczema Society (NES). The survey also sought to ascertain their expect ations of their initial consultation with general practitioners and ho spital doctors; to assess their satisfaction with these consultations; to obtain their views on the treatment prescribed, and their reasons for joining the NES. Information on 1972 adults (614 male, 1358 female ) and from 1944 parents of affected children was received, representin g an overall response rate of 29%. The work of 1061 (54%) adults, and the choice of career of 391 (20%) had been affected. Eczema affected t he ability to perform domestic duties in 1128 (83%) women compared wit h 439 (71%) men. Social and leisure activities were affected in 1269 ( 64%) of adults. The development of personal relationships had been imp aired in 273 (14%), and the sex lives of 373 (19%) had been affected. In children sleep (60%) was the most commonly affected activity. The e xpectations of the initial consultation with their general practitione r of 659 (17%) had not at all been met, of 2528 (65%) partly met, and of only 483 (12%) completely met; 2638 patients had seen a hospital sp ecialist. The expectations of 478 (18%) had not at all been met, of 11 64 (62%) partly met, and of only 512 (19%) completely met. Forty-four per cent (1713) were either 'extremely satisfied' or 'satisfied' with the treatments they had been given, 1529 (40%) were 'neutral', 480 (12 %) were dissatisfied, and 103 (2.6%) were extremely dissatisfied. Seve nty-two per cent of the respondents stated their main reason for joini ng the NES was to obtain further information about eczema and its trea tment. Only 10% wished to be put in touch with other sufferers. Member s of patient support groups are likely to be highly motivated. This ma y be due to increased severity of disease, increased anxiety or increa sed dissatisfaction with treatment. Thus it may be difficult to genera lize from the results of this survey, particularly as the response rat e was 29%. However, the results do reveal the considerable effect of e czema upon the lives of affected individuals. It also revealed much di ssatisfaction with patients' initial consultations with both general p ractitioners and hospital doctors. Patients require from doctors not o nly treatment and diagnosis, but also an explanation as to the nature of eczema and advice on how to use the treatments prescribed. These re quirements are reflected in their reasons for joining the NES.