Table 2

Translation of key concepts through the studies

Paper 1

IBD

Paper 2 SHADE

Paper 3 MENTIP

Paper 4

IBS

Prior information seeking

Yes – aligned to consultant

Minimal

Minimal

Yes -orientated to alternatives to medical perspective

Timing of information provision important to self-management

Yes – early in illness career

Yes – before depression too severe

No, but early in illness career might impact on quality of life

No, but need for episodic 'just in time' information

Role of professional important

Yes – to clarify and confirm existing relationship and decisions

Yes – as gateway to use of the information and legitimisation of condition and strategies

No, but gave medical permission to use the information

No, but ensured legitimisation and permission to use information to self-manage

Engagement with and use of self-help materials

Yes – identified with others' experiences.

Used to monitor, make management changes and raise awareness of condition with others. Also to fill gaps in knowledge.

Yes – identified with collective experiences of others, but severity impaired engagement.

Used to monitor, make management changes and raise awareness of condition with others. 'Pick and mix' use and support whilst waiting for traditional therapy.

Yes, but linked to legitimisation of condition -led to enhanced control and ownership of knowledge.

Used to support future decision-making and fill gaps in knowledge.

Yes – identified with collective experiences of others.

'Pick and mix' use. Refresher for self care action.

Protheroe et al. Implementation Science 2008 3:44   doi:10.1186/1748-5908-3-44