Table 3 Results of exploratory factor analysis

I am confident managing the difficulties associated with my chronic health condition

I am confident performing the skills necessary for managing my chronic health condition

I know what helps me stay motivated to better manage my chronic health condition

I am confident overcoming the obstacles that prevent me from achieving my health goals

I know how to reach the goals I set about my health problems

I know my capabilities and strengths necessary for managing my chronic health condition

I am confident using my abilities to reach my health goals

I know where to find support for my health care needs

I am confident managing the pain associated with my chronic health condition

I know my role versus the roles of my provider when solving problems associated with my chronic health condition

I am confident performing therapeutic exercises as prescribed

My provider listens attentively to me

I collaborate with my provider in planning my health care regimen

My provider encourages me to participate more in decisions related to my health care regimen

My provider spends a fair amount of time during a visit

My provider regards my knowledge and experience in taking care of my chronic health condition

The positive attitudes of my provider motivates me to participate more in making decisions related to my health care regimen

My provider supports my health care choices even if it contradicts with his/her recommendations

I feel having a voice when interacting with my provider

I am comfortable discussing my health concerns with my provider

I am comfortable asking my provider questions related to my health problems

I am comfortable expressing my feelings to my provider

I consider myself an equal partner when interacting with my provider

I often request additional health resources from my provider when needed

I would identify problems related to my chronic health condition to Healthcare Sector for the benefit of all patients

I would ask Healthcare Sector to consider including patients in the health policy process

To improve the health care of peers, I would contact Healthcare Sector by writing them a letter

I would state my opinion to HealthCare Sector for the benefit of all peers

To improve the health care of peers, I would place a call to Healthcare Sector

I would contact Healthcare Sector to expand health coverage for the alternative therapies

I would ask Healthcare Sector to provide me with available community resources

I would attend an event or a public meeting to discuss problems related to my chronic health condition

I have the right to discuss my use of medication with my provider

I would ask my provider to change my medication when it does not satisfy me

I would talk to my provider if I feel that a wrong therapy is prescribed for me

I am responsible for the decisions I make about my health

I would talk to provider if I feel that a wrong procedure is to be performed on me

I have the right to discuss my food preferences with my provider

I would ask my provider to change the dietary regimen if it does not satisfy me

I would stop a prescribed therapy that I am not satisfied with, even if it contradicts my provider’s recommendations

I make the final decision regarding my health care

I can refuse any treatment suggested by my provider if it does not satisfy me

I share my health experiences with peers

I assist peers to manage their chronic health condition