Authors: Ola Mousa, Mai Salem Alharsan, Dalal Abdulrahman Alsultan, Aysha Ahmad Barnawi, Hameeda Matooq Aljanabi.
Background: The objective of health and wellness coaching is to provide patients with active participation in their self-management built on their personal goals and willingness to change through a patient-centered intervention. By changing health behavior, health coaching helps users improve their self-care.
Aim: The purpose of this study is to examine how coaches support participants and to understand the elements that contribute to engagement and success.
Methods: A qualitative-descriptive design was used to gather insights from health coaches participating in semistructured interviews. As a convenience sample, participants in a health coaching program in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia were recruited. Five health coaches participated in the study, giving a clear picture of their experiences. Those who work at Al Khobar primary health care centers or have recently started working there. Data was collected between September 15 and November 15, 2023.
Results: Among the study participants, two were diploma nurses, two had a bachelor's degree, and one had a master's degree. They are all female nurses. The majority of health coach stated that they had worked with their patients for 2 years or more. Based on our analysis, we identified five themes: Availability, Trusting relationship, Personal support, Decision support, and Bridging.
Conclusion: It has been found that availability and continuity of communication with patients are key characteristics of a successful coaching relationship, as is a strong relationship based on mutual trust and respect for patient confidentiality. Furthermore, coaches support patients' decision-making and bridge the gap between them and their clinicians by providing personalized and supportive care.
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