Tinnitusversorgung in Österreich

: Eine Analyse der verfügbaren Informationsressourcen für Patient*innen entlang der Patient*innen-Journey von Personen mit chronischem Tinnitus

Abstract

Background
Chronic tinnitus is defined as ear noises that persist for at least three months. Due to demographic change, the prevalence of the symptom is increasing. Chronic tinnitus can be associated with numerous comorbidities. Patients and healthcare professionals often face communication challenges due to differing expectations regarding the relief and cure of tinnitus. Tinnitus-specific health information is neither sufficiently nor satisfactorily communicated both online and in the course of medical counselling. The aim of the master's thesis is to analyze the current state of information resources for people with chronic tinnitus in Austria and to derive recommendations for an optimized design of these resources in the future.
Research Methodology
The research questions were answered with the help of twelve qualitative interviews with patients and experts, as well as a genuine document analysis. A total of fifty pieces of health information that could be found in Austria were included in the document analysis. The interviews were analyzed using summarizing content analysis according to Mayring. MAPPinfo was used as an evaluation tool for the document analysis. The empirical analysis was preceded by a systematic literature search.
Results
Both patients and experts were clearly dissatisfied with the information provided and the way in which patients were treated. In the course of the document analysis, it became clear that the existing health information predominantly does not meet the quality criteria of evidencebased health information. The information resources are not sufficiently systematically integrated. Conclusion There is a need to optimize interpersonal, media and group-specific health communication in order to meet the information needs of people with chronic tinnitus. In future, particular attention should be paid to optimized medical counselling, increased interdisciplinary cooperation and clearly structured online information platforms. The master's thesis highlights the need for action and research in connection with health communication with those affected.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Sebastian Martin (Supervisor)