Purpose: This study explored illness experiences and the demands for a health-related program tailored to individuals with chronic disease at one of the Korean Seon Centers. It also utilized this information as foundational data for developing a program tailored to their needs.
Methods: The study utilized focus group interviews to collect data from members of one of the Korean Seon centers who have chronic disease, regarding their illness experiences and their expectations for disease management programs. The collected data was then analyzed using the qualitative content analysis method.
Results: The analysis yielded five overarching themes and 14 subthemes. These themes included opposing responses to disease diagnosis, reflections on the causes of disease, efforts toward disease recovery, obstacles to disease recovery, and the need for a customized disease management program.
Conclusion: The findings highlighted the challenges the participants faced in their disease recovery process. They expressed a strong desire for a comprehensive management program that incorporates in-depth information, experience sharing, and education. Such a program would empower individuals to take control of their physical and mental well-being.