The program for rheumatic independent self-management: A pilot evaluation

The 'Program for Rheumatic Independent Self-Management' (PRISM) is an inter disciplinary programme that integrates group education and individualised t reatment using the principles of self-management, adult learning, case mana gement and self-efficacy enhancement. This study is a before-after evaluati on of 57 individuals who attended PRISM. Outcome measures were selected to measure self-efficacy, disability, pain and ability to cope. The mean self- efficacy score increased immediately following the programme and this impro vement was maintained at B-month follow-up. Disability decreased from basel ine to 6-month followup. There was a decrease in the mean level of pain fro m post-class to 6-month follow-up. All of these changes were statistically significant. These preliminary findings suggest that PRISM may be effective in enhancing self-efficacy, and reducing disability and pain.