A Realist-informed Investigation of the Organisation and Delivery of Health and Social Care Services for People With Fibromyalgia Living in the UK

This research study aims to: i) Explore and understand how health and social care for people with fibromyalgia living in the UK is organised and delivered. ii) Identify models of practice to inform co-design of new care pathways for people with fibromyalgia living in the UK. To do this, up to ten UK-based case studies will be conducted in total: at least one each in England, Scotland and Wales. Interviews will be conducted with approximately 10 participants per case study, for a total of 100 participant interviews. Qualitative observations (in-person or on-line) will be conducted with a similar number of people (total 100 participants). Online focus groups will also be carried out with approximately 6 to 8 participants per group (up to ten groups for a total 60-80 participants). Participants will include healthcare professionals (for example, doctors, nurses, allied health professionals), social care practitioners (for example, social prescribers), service delivery managers, commissioners and other individuals involved in the organisation and delivery of health and social care services for people with fibromyalgia living in the UK.