Levin, JeffWhite, Kyndall2015-06-252015-06-252015http://hdl.handle.net/2104/9452Lyme disease is a tick-borne infectious illness causing symptoms that can range in severity from mild to debilitating. It is important for a diagnosis to be made quickly after infection in order to prevent the development of more severe symptoms. However, challenges related to healthcare issues can delay diagnosis. In this thesis, three such challenges are identified: (1) testing and the need for improved diagnostic procedures, (2) a culture of uncertainty and the need for more education, and (3) chronic symptoms and the need for more treatment. These issues are further explored from what are termed the personal, relational, and population perspectives in order to demonstrate their effects on the patient experience. To contextualize these effects, direct quotations from interviews with Lyme disease patients and a caregiver are incorporated. Changes are proposed with respect to research, education, and treatment in order to encourage action that will improve patient experience.en-USBaylor University projects are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. Contact libraryquestions@baylor.edu for inquiries about permission.ThesisWorldwide access