BABS Trial: Educational Campaign Enhances Osteoarthritis Management in Dutch Primary Care

Overview

The BABS cluster randomized controlled trial evaluated an educational campaign aimed at improving osteoarthritis (OA) management in Dutch general practices. The intervention promoted positive beliefs about non-surgical treatments among patients and healthcare providers, resulting in optimized referral timing and enhanced patient engagement in self-management.

Background

Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of disability worldwide, characterized by joint pain and stiffness that limit physical activity. Despite guideline recommendations, non-surgical treatments for knee and hip OA are underutilized, partly due to patient misconceptions and inconsistent information from healthcare providers. Patient education is critical to address these barriers by providing clear, evidence-based information to improve treatment adherence and outcomes. The BABS campaign was developed to target these issues through persuasive communication techniques within primary care settings.

Data Highlights

The study was a cluster randomized controlled trial involving 14 general practices in the Netherlands, randomized 1:1 to intervention or control groups. The intervention included an information campaign with educational materials and sessions delivered between April 2023 and May 2024. Data were collected via online questionnaires and electronic health records over a 12-month follow-up period. The campaign targeted both patients with knee and hip OA and healthcare professionals including GPs, practice assistants, and nurses.

Key Findings

• The BABS campaign successfully promoted more positive beliefs regarding non-surgical treatment options among patients and healthcare professionals.
• Implementation of the campaign optimized referral timing to secondary care, potentially reducing unnecessary specialist consultations.
• Patients reported increased physical activity and improved self-management behaviors following the intervention.
• Healthcare providers demonstrated improved alignment with guideline recommendations for OA management.
• The campaign materials, including posters, flyers, infographics, and educational sessions, were well received and facilitated consistent messaging.

Clinical Implications

This study highlights the importance of structured educational initiatives in primary care to improve OA management. By addressing misconceptions and providing consistent, evidence-based information, healthcare providers can enhance patient engagement in non-surgical treatments, potentially delaying or avoiding surgery. Integrating such campaigns into routine practice may optimize resource utilization and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The BABS educational campaign effectively enhanced knowledge and attitudes toward non-surgical OA treatments among patients and healthcare professionals, leading to improved management within primary care. These findings support the integration of targeted educational strategies to optimize osteoarthritis care.

References

1. BABS Study Protocol 2023 -- Development and Evaluation of an Educational Campaign for OA
2. CONSORT 2025 Guidelines -- Standards for Reporting Clinical Trials