AB0913-PARE METHOTREXATE FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: PATIENT PERSPECTIVES ON MONITORING IN PRIMARY CARE

Background: Monotherapy with methotrexate (MTX) is one first-line option for newly diagnosed Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) 1 . Although treatment usually commenced by a specialist, repeat prescribing and monitoring responsibilities often lie primary care. While inadequate safety concern, unnecessary duplication of invariably has cost implications General Practice (GP). Objectives: To ensure that patients in South-West GP practice who are taking oral MTX RA appropriately monitored line current guidance from the British Society Rheumatology (BSR). Current recommends once stable dose maintained six weeks, followed monthly bloods next three months, at least twelve weekly blood sufficient then on Methods: A randomised sample 50 registered were RA; 6 months; was collected. The length time between patient’s two most recent tests recorded. random selection ten more frequent than BSR suggest asked series questions to determine patient perspectives reasons frequency. Results: 58% had guidelines recommend. Within this group, mode frequency four previous National which superseded 2017 2 .The common themes were: a.Previous abnormal results requiring close b.Multiple disease modifying anti-rheumatoid drug (DMARD) regimes included c.Patient preference d.Unclear or unknown reason purported increased multiple DMARD not national Conclusion: This audit demonstrates over half having suggests necessary. Furthermore, it understanding their perceived need largely inaccurate unclear them. There clear deficit education surrounding must be addressed order empower patients, as well reducing tests. As result audit, formally introduced part annual review. An information sheet these requirements produced aid practitioners process. References: [1]J, Ledingham et al | BSR/ BHPR guideline prescription non-biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs 2017; 56: 865-8. [2]Chakravarty K etc BSR/BHPR therapy consultation Association Dermatologists 2008; 47: 924–5. Disclosure Interests: None declared