Development of generic core competences of health professionals in rheumatology: a systematic literature review informing the 2019 EULAR recommendations

Objective To identify generic competences on the

desired knowledge, skills and of health professionals

in rheumatology (HPRs) to inform the respective EULAR

recommendations.

Methods A systematic literature review was performed

on the generic core competences (defined as knowledge,

skills or attitudes) of HPRs (nurses, physical therapists

(PTs) or occupational therapists (OTs)). Literature was

obtained from electronic databases, published EULAR

recommendations and via personal communication with

representatives of national rheumatology societies and

experts in the field. Qualitative, quantitative and mixed

methods studies were included, and their methodological

quality was scored using appropriate instruments.

Results From 766 references reviewed, 79 fulfilled the

inclusion criteria. Twenty studies addressed competences

of multiple HPRs: 15 were of qualitative design, 1

quantitative, 1 mixed-methods,

2 systematic reviews

and 1 opinion paper. The methodological quality of most

studies was medium to high. Five studies concerned the

development of a comprehensive set of competences.

Key competences included: basic knowledge of rheumatic

diseases, holistic approach to patient management,

effective communication with colleagues and patients

and provision of education to patients. The proposed

competences were confirmed in studies focusing on one or

more specific competences, on a rheumatic disease or on

a specific profession (nurses, PTs or OTs).

Conclusion Generic competences were identified for

HPRs. Data were mostly derived from qualitative studies.

All identified studies varied and were at national level,

highlighting the need for the harmonisation of HPR

competences across Europe. These findings underpin the

development of EULAR recommendations for the core

competences of HPRs.