Effectiveness of general practice based, practice nurse led telephone coaching on glycaemic control of type 2 diabetes: the Patient Engagement and Coaching for Health (PEACH) pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial

Biomedical outcomes and cardiovascular risks in Chinese adults with type 2 diabetes in the metabolic management center program: A longitudinal comparative study

AIMS

To assess the extent to which biomedical outcomes and cardiovascular risk profile were improved in the management of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes enrolled in the metabolic management center (MMC) program.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed propensity score matching of diabetic patients in the MMC program for at least 12 months to those with diabetes under usual primary care, based on age, sex, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level, and diabetes duration. Difference-in-difference analysis was conducted to compare changes in biomedical outcomes, attainment of treatment targets, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction.

RESULTS

Of 557 pairs of diabetic patients matched 1:1 (n = 1,114), the MMC cohort exhibited greater improvements in FPG (-0.84 mmol/L, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.22 to -0.46, P < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure [BP] (-2.08 mmHg, 95%CI -3.21 to -0.94, P < 0.001), body mass index [BMI] (-0.29 kg/m2, 95%CI -0.51 to -0.07, P = 0.009), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (0.13 mmol/L, 95%CI 0.04-0.23, P = 0.008), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (0.05 mmol/L, 95%CI 0.01-0.08, P = 0.017), and 10-year CVD risk (Framingham CVD risk, -0.94%, 95%CI -1.71 to -0.17, P = 0.017; atherosclerotic CVD risk, -0.77%, 95%CI -1.34 to -0.20, P = 0.009) when compared to the usual primary care cohort after adjustment for confounders. More patients in the MMC cohort achieved treatment targets with lifestyle modifications than their counterparts under primary care.

CONCLUSIONS

Enrolment in the MMC program appears promising in the management of FPG, BP, BMI, lifestyle, and CVD risk in diabetic patients, suggesting the necessity of incorporating the MMC program into routine primary care.

The effect of tele-nursing based motivational interviewing on self-efficacy, self-management and metabolic control parameters in individuals with type 2 diabetes: randomized controlled study

AIM

The study was carried out to investigate the effect of tele-nursing based motivational interviewing on diabetes self-efficacy, self-management, and metabolic control parameters in individuals with Type 2 diabetes.

METHOD

A parallel-group randomized controlled trial. The study was completed with 70 participants (intervention: 36; control: 34). The data were collected using the Socio-demographic and Health Related Questionnaire, the Diabetes Self-Efficacy Scale, the Diabetes Self-Management Scale. The intervention group received eight sessions tele-nursing based motivational interviewing. Instruments were administered to both groups before the intervention, at the end of the last motivational interviewing session (post-test, 3rd-month), and at 6th-month follow-up. The data were analyzed using chi-square test, independent sample t-test, and one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

In the pre-test, there was no difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of independent variables (p > 0.05). Self-efficacy and self-management scores increased in the post-test and follow-up test of the group to which telenursing-based MI was applied, and there was a difference between the groups (p < 0.05). FBG and triglyceride levels of the intervention group decreased significantly in the post-test and follow-up test (FBG = 217.46 ± 73.88, 166.13 ± 50.71, and 161.41 ± 50.50, respectively; triglyceride = 225.28 ± 148.32, 159.68 ± 68.62, and 161.09 ± 73.06, respectively) (p < 0.05). HbA1c% level decreased significantly only in the post-test. However, no significant differences were found in terms of other metabolic parameters (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This result shows the positive effectiveness of tele-nursing based MI intervention on self-efficacy, self-management, HbA1c%, FBG, triglyceride. Public health nurses should be provided with tele-nursing based MI to individuals with type 2 diabetes in primary health care institutions.

STUDY REGISTRATION

The study was registered in ClinicalTrials NCT05628259 (prospective). Trial registration number and date of registration for prospectively registered trials. The study was registered in ClinicalTrials NCT05628259 (prospective). 2023-02-01.

Effects of nurse-led telephone interventions on HbA1c levels in patients with type 2 diabetes: a Meta-analysis-based evaluation of follow-up protocols

BACKGROUND

Telephone interventions are promising for managing glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, optimal follow-up parameters, such as frequency, duration, content, and intervals, are yet to be standardized. This meta-analysis assesses the effectiveness of nurse-led telephone interventions in controlling HbA1c levels, with subgroup analyses based on these variables to provide evidence-based recommendations.

METHODS

Searches were conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP) until February 2024. Study quality was evaluated using Cochrane risk of bias criteria, and data were analyzed with RevMan 5.4.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies, including 2,294 T2DM patients, showed that nurse-led telephone interventions significantly reduced HbA1c levels [MD = -0.59, 95% CI (-0.85, -0.34), P < 0.00001, Tau² = 0.15, I² = 87%]. Subgroup analyses indicated that protocols comprising 16 follow-ups [MD = -0.92, 95% CI (-1.71, -0.12), P = 0.02], each lasting 20-25 min [MD = -1.23, 95% CI (-1.63, -0.83), P < 0.001] with half a month intervals [MD = -1.29, 95% CI (-2.43, -0.15), P = 0.03] covering medication, diet, exercise, and glucose monitoring, were the most effective. Protocols involving 12 follow-ups [MD = -0.87, 95% CI (-1.28, -0.46), P < 0.001], each lasting 10-15 min [MD = -0.54, 95% CI (-1.02, -0.06), P = 0.03] at weekly intervals [MD = -0.93, 95% CI (-1.68, -0.17), P = 0.02], also demonstrated significant improvement. Publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot, Egger's Test (P = 0.108), and Begg's Test (P = 0.199), which indicated no significant bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurse-led telephone follow-ups effectively enhance HbA1c control in T2DM patients. While subgroup findings suggest optimal protocols, individual needs should guide intervention customization. Further high-quality RCTs are needed to validate these results.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO: CRD42024578866.

The effectiveness of telemedicine in the management of type 2 diabetes: A systematic review

Background

Type 2 diabetes, a lifestyle-related disease demanding daily self-management, is a significant health concern. In this context, the use of telemedicine as a management tool is a relatively new and promising approach. This study aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge by identifying the effectiveness of telemedicine in managing type 2 diabetes through a systematic review approach.

Methods

Four databases were searched including PubMed, Virtual Health Library, Global Health Library, and Google Scholar on 27 July 2022. Additionally, a manual search was performed to identify any relevant articles that may have been missed. The quality of the included articles was rigorously assessed using the Study Quality Assessment Tools of the National Institute of Health.

Results

We analyzed data from 134 articles. All 134 studies were published between 2002 and 2022, including 103 controlled intervention trials, 13 cohort studies, 7 before-after (pre-post) studies with no control group, 1 initial trial, 1 case study, 1 pilot study, and 8 two-arm studies that did not report the study design. Accordingly, most studies show positive changes in glycemic index in every group using telemedicine. Overall, although the BMI and weight indices in the studies improved at the end of the course, the improvement values were considered insignificant.

Conclusion

Telemedicine may be a valuable solution for blood sugar management in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine in improving BMI and quality of life is unclear.

Comparative Effects of Diabetes Self-Management Programs on Type 2 Diabetes Clinical Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

AIMS

This systematic review and network meta-analysis compared the effects of various diabetes self-management programs: Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME), Diabetes Self-Management Support (DSMS), and Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES).

METHODS

We searched four electronic databases for eligible articles up to March 1, 2023. Only randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of DSME, DSMS, or DSMES on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level, fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in adults with type 2 diabetes were included. Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool was used to assess each study quality, and Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis was applied to evaluate the certainty of the evidence. Data were pooled with a random-effects model under a frequentist framework.

RESULTS

A total of 108 studies encompassing 17,735 participants (mean age 57.4 years) were analysed. DSMES, compared with usual care, significantly reduced HbA1c level (mean difference = -0.61%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.74 to -0.49; certainty of evidence = moderate), FBG (-23.33 mg/dL; -31.33 to -15.34; high), TC (-5.62 mg/dL; -8.69 to -2.55; high), SBP (-3.05 mmHg; -5.20 to -0.91; high), and DBP (-2.15 mmHg; -3.36 to -0.95; high). Compared with DSME, DSMES showed significantly greater improvements in HbA1c levels (-0.23%; -0.40 to -0.07; high) and DBP (-1.82 mmHg; -3.47 to -0.17; high). DSMES was ranked as the top treatment for improving diabetes clinical outcomes (0.82-0.97) in people with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

DSMES, in people with type 2 diabetes, yields the greatest improvement in the key clinical outcomes of HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, and blood pressure levels. Healthcare providers should incorporate the DSMES approach into their daily care routines. Approximately 30% of the studies reviewed raised some concerns about their quality, underscoring the need for high-quality studies in this area.

Clinical and cost-effectiveness of telemedicine among patients with type 2 diabetes in primary care: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Telemedicine has been promoted as an effective way of managing type-2 diabetes (T2DM) in primary care. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine is unclear. We investigated the clinical and cost-effectiveness of different telemedicine interventions for people with T2DM, compared to usual care.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane, CINHAL, ProQuest and EconLit for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions on clinical outcomes (HbA1c, body mass index [BMI], weight, diastolic blood pressure [DBP], systolic blood pressure [SBP], fasting blood glucose, high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein [LDL] cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride) in adults with T2DM, published in English from inception until 31 December 2022. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models pooling mean differences, heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots, Egger tests and trim and fill. Subgroup analyses included type of telemedicine intervention, telemedicine mode of delivery and type of healthcare professionals. This study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD 42022375128.

RESULTS

Of the 4093 records identified, 21 RCTs, 10,732 participants from seven regions, were included. Reported interventions included telephone (k = 16 studies), internet-based (k = 2), videoconference (k = 2) and telephone and emails (k = 1). We observed no statistically significant differences between synchronous or asynchronous telemedicine interventions compared to usual care for HbA1c (-0.08% (-0.88 mmol/mol); 95% CI: -0.18, 0.02), BMI (0.51 kg/m2; 95% CI: -0.21, 1.22), SBP (-1.48 mmHg; 95% CI: -3.22, 0.26), DBP (3.23 mmHg; 95% CI: -0.89, 7.34), HDL-cholesterol (0.01 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.03, 0.05), LDL-cholesterol (0.08 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.22, 0.37), triglycerides (-0.08 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.31, -0.15), total cholesterol (-0.10 mmol/L; 95% CI: -0.25, 0.04) and weight (-0.50 kg; 95% CI: -1.21, 0.21).

CONCLUSIONS

Telemedicine was as effective as usual care in improving health outcomes of people with T2DM. They can provide a safe solution in times of rising demands for primary healthcare services, or in extreme events, like a global pandemic. More high-quality RCTs are needed on the cost evaluation of telemedicine.

Demystifying diabetes health coaching: A scoping review unveiling the 'who' and 'where' of health coaching for adults with type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a complex chronic condition that requires ongoing self-management. Diabetes health coaching interventions provide personalized healthcare programming to address physical and psychosocial aspects of diabetes self-management.

AIMS

This scoping review aims to explore the contexts and settings of diabetes health coaching interventions for adults with T2D, using the RE-AIM framework.

METHODS

A search was completed in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Emcare, Embase and Cochrane. Included citations described adults with exclusively T2D who had received a health coaching intervention. Citations were excluded if they focused on any other types of diabetes or diabetes prevention.

RESULTS

A total of 3418 records were identified through database and manual searches, with 29 citations selected for data extraction. Most health coaching interventions were delivered by health professionals, many employed lay health workers and a few included peer coaches. While many health coaching interventions were delivered remotely, in-person intervention settings were distributed among primary care, community health settings and non-healthcare sites.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this review suggest that diabetes health coaching may be implemented by a variety of providers in different settings. Further research is required to standardize training and implementation of health coaching and evaluate its long-term effectiveness.

Telephone calls and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

AIMS

In-depth and updated systematic reviews evaluating telephone calls in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) management are missing. This study aimed to assess the effect of this intervention on glycemic control in T2DM patients when compared with usual care.

METHODS

We systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) on T2DM using Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and LILACS, up to March 2021. The Risk of Bias 2.0 (Rob 2.0) tool and GRADE were used for the quality evaluation. The intervention effect was estimated by the change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). PROSPERO registry CRD42020204519.

RESULTS

3545 references were reviewed and 32 were included (8598 patients). Telephone calls, all approaching education, improved HbA1c by 0.33% [95% CI, -0.48% to -0.18%; I2 = 78%; p < 0.0001] compared to usual care. A greater improvement was found when the intervention included pharmacologic modification (-0.82%, 95% CI, -1.42% to -0.22%; I2 = 92%) and when it was applied by nurses (-0.53%, 95% CI, -0.86% to -0.2%; I2 = 87%). Meta-regression showed no relationship between DM duration and HbA1c changes.

CONCLUSION

The telephone call intervention provided a benefit regarding T2DM glycemic control, especially if provided by nurses, or if associated with patient education and pharmacological treatment modification.

The effect of nurse-led telephone-based interventions on glycosylated hemoglobin levels in people with type 2 diabetes: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Telenursing interventions can contribute to achieving optimal glycemic control.

AIM

This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of nurse-led telephone-based interventions on glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We searched electronic databases for studies published in English up to January 2023. This study was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 checklist. The intervention effects were pooled using a random-effects model. Two authors independently assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

RESULTS

Eight studies involving 1179 people with type 2 diabetes were included in this study. Interventions were performed for 15-30 min and 5-16 calls. There was no evidence of a significant publication bias. The evaluation of meta-analysis data showed that nurse-led telephone-based interventions significantly reduced HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes (mean difference = -0.53, 95% Confidence Interval [-0.89, -0.17], p = .003).

LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION

Nurse-led telephone-based interventions focused on reducing glycosylated hemoglobin levels in people with type 2 diabetes can be used as an effective intervention to achieve glycemic control. We recommend holding an average of 15-25 min interviews once or twice a week.

Practical and methodological challenges when conducting a cluster randomized trial: Examples and recommendations

The use of cluster randomized trial design to answer research questions is increasing. This design and associated variants such as the cluster randomized crossover and stepped wedge are useful to assess complex interventions in a pragmatic way but when adopting such designs, one may face specific implementation challenges. This article summarizes common challenges faced when conducting cluster randomized trials, cluster randomized crossover trials, and stepped wedge trials, and provides recommendations.

Educators' Perspectives on the Teaching and Learning of Type 2 Diabetes Content in Physiotherapy Programmes across Canada

Purpose

This qualitative descriptive study researched educators' perspectives of type 2 diabetes (T2D) Teaching and learning, in physiotherapy (PT) programmes across Canada.

Methods

Faculty members and clinical instructors from the 15 PT programmes in Canada were contacted. Online surveys collected data on the educators' professional background and perspectives on T2D in the PT curriculum. One-on-one telephone interviews were conducted and thematic analysis was used to generate themes and codes from the interview transcripts.

Results

Ten educators from 10 universities completed the survey. Seven of the 10 educators also participated in a telephone interview. Survey responses revealed that T2D content is taught predominantly through case studies and lectures. Of the 10 respondents, six reported that the curriculum does not devote adequate time to T2D content, and nine reported they "strongly agree" or "agree" that T2D is an essential component of the PT curriculum. The interviews revealed that T2D content varies across PT programmes. The educators agreed that T2D is a common condition seen in practice, there is a role for PT intervention, and T2D content is limited by classroom time.

Conclusions

Educators noted challenges integrating more T2D content in the curriculum and said that PT clinical contributions for people living with T2D are underutilized. Additional evidence-informed rationale is needed to explore optimal integration of T2D content in PT programmes.

The Effect of Telenursing on Disease Outcomes in People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review

Method

A comprehensive search of online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, was performed using the following MeSH keywords: telenursing, telephone follow-up, diabetes mellitus, disease management, glycemic, self-care, treatment adherence, and quality of life, up to September 2023. Two reviewers independently screened pertinent studies based on the prespecified outcomes (treatment adherence, self-care, glycemic control, and quality of life) and extracted data from all eligible studies.

Results

Of all retrieved records, 23 studies including 5 quasiexperimental (21%) and 18 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (79%) from five continents met the inclusion criteria. Both male and female patients were considered in the included studies, with mean age of 56.2 years old and a follow-up range of 12 weeks to 18 months. Findings showed that telenursing or nurse telephone follow-up significantly increased mean self-care efficacy score, improved adherence to the treatment regimen, decreased glycosylated hemoglobin and plasma glucose levels (but not lipid profile and body mass index), and improved quality of life compared to the routine care in people with T2DM.

Conclusion

Telenursing can effectively supplement healthcare professionals to manage PWT2D. Increasing patients' knowledge about their drugs, insulin administration, and diabetes complications improves self-care behaviors and medical adherence. Consistently, improved self-care and regular use of treatment result in improved metabolic indicators and decreased rate of complications, which is associated with a better quality of life.

The impact of health and wellness coaching on patient-important outcomes in chronic illness care: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Health and Wellness Coaching (HWC) may be beneficial in chronic condition care. We sought to appraise its effectiveness on quality of life (QoL), self-efficacy (SE), depression, and anxiety.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane CENTRAL for randomized trials published January 2005 - March 2023 that compared HWC to standard clinical care or another intervention without coaching. We examined QoL, SE, depression, or anxiety outcomes. Meta-analysis utilizing the random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled standardized mean difference (SMD).

RESULTS

Thirty included studies demonstrated that HWC improved QoL within 3 months (SMD 0.62 95 % CI 0.22-1.02, p = 0.002), SE within 1.5 months (SMD 0.38, 95 % CI 0.03-0.73, p = 0.03), and depression at 3, 6, and 12 months (SMD 0.67, 95 % CI 0.13-1.20, p = 0.01), (SMD 0.72, 95 % CI 0.19-1.24, p = 0.006), and (SMD 0.41, 95 % CI 0.09-0.73, p = 0.01) Certainty in the evidence for most outcomes was either very low or low primarily due to the high risk of bias, heterogeneity, and imprecision.

CONCLUSION

HWC improves QoL, SE, and depression across chronic illness populations. Future research needs to standardize intervention reporting and outcome collection.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Future HWC studies should standardize intervention components, reporting, and outcome measures, apply relevant chronic illness theories, and aim to follow participants for greater than one year.

Systematic review of the effectiveness of nurse-led care in reducing glycated haemoglobin in adults with Type 1 or 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Type 1 and 2 diabetes care, especially within primary health-care settings, has traditionally involved doctor-led clinics. However, with increasing chronic disease burden, there is scope for nurses to expand their role in assisting diabetes self-management.

AIMS

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of nurse-led care in reducing glycated haemoglobin in adults with Type 1 or 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Methodology from the Joanna Briggs Institute Method for Systematic Review Research and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, including identifying publications, assessing study quality, summarizing evidence and interpreting findings. The search strategy involved using the Medical Subject Headings and keyword variations when searching MEDLINE (Ovid), Scopus, PubMed and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases. Inclusion criteria were samples with Type 1 or 2 diabetes, mean age of ≥18 years, English language studies and publication date of January 2011-December 2021.

RESULTS

Overall, 34 articles from 16 countries met inclusion criteria. Though not always clinically significant, results indicated that nurse-led care had beneficial impacts on glycated haemoglobin values, with reductions from 0.03% to 2.0%. This was evident when nurses received formal training, used treatment algorithms, had limited medical support, utilized technology and offered defined culturally sensitive and appropriate diabetes care.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings support nurse-led Type 1 and 2 diabetes care. Although further research is required, changes may necessitate increased recognition of nurse-led care and funding. Nurse-led care models should differ according to health-care settings.

Comparing the effects of home visits and telenursing on blood glucose control: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Home visits have often been performed for diabetes management, but with the increased use of the internet and smartphones, people are opting for telenursing as the main method for monitoring and controlling diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

This study compares the effects of home visits and telenursing on diabetes management.

METHODS

Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) were used as data sources. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood sugar, and two-hour post-prandial glucose levels were used as outcome measures. A subgroup analysis was performed based on the type of diabetes and follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 1890 studies, 24 (2801 participants) were selected and meta-analyzed. The nursing interventions provided during nursing visits or telenursing mainly included education on diabetes and blood sugar control. It was seen that HbA1c decreased with a weighted mean difference of -0.66 (95 % confidence interval -0.82 to -0.51, p < .001) % in home visits and -0.56 (95 % confidence interval -0.81 to -0.31, p < .001) % in telenursing. The fasting blood sugar reported only in telenursing was reduced by a weighted mean difference of -14.23 (95 % confidence interval 27.59 to -0.88, p = .04) mg/dL and two-hour post-prandial glucose was reduced with a mean difference of -15.84 (95 % confidence interval -24.45 to -7.24, p = .003) mg/dL. Furthermore, low heterogeneity was found among the studies. In a subgroup analysis of diabetes type, HbA1c in home visits was reduced by -0.86 % in type 1 diabetes and -0.62 % in type 2 diabetes, while in telenursing, the reductions were -0.65 % and -0.53 %, respectively. Fasting blood glucose was reduced by -6.08 mg/dL and -18.50 mg/dL, respectively, whereas two-hour postprandial blood sugar was reduced by -14.49 mg/dL and -30.30 mg/dL, respectively, in telenursing. In the subgroup analysis of the follow-up period, HbA1c during home visits decreased by -0.63 % at 10 to 16 weeks, -0.73 % at 24 to 36 weeks, and -0.64 % at 52 weeks or more, while in telenursing, the reductions were -0.80 %, -0.44 %, and -0.07 %, respectively. Home visits were not statistically significant between 10 and 16 weeks, whereas telenursing was not significant at 52 weeks or more.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite telenursing reducing HbA1c slightly less than home visits, evidence from this systematic review suggests that telenursing is a similarly effective approach for controlling blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. Telenursing is a nursing intervention that can be used as an alternative to home visits for patients requiring diabetes management.

The effect of nurse-led diabetes self-management programmes on glycosylated haemoglobin levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review

AIMS

This review aimed to examine the content, frequency, duration, and outcomes of nurse-led diabetes self-management programmes on glycosylated haemoglobin levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes self-management programmes improve glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes to acquire specific behavioural changes and develop effective problem-solving skills.

DESIGN

A systematic review was used in this study.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Ovid, CINAHL, Proquest and Scopus databases were searched for studies published in English until February 2022. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

REVIEW METHODS

This study followed the recommendations of the Cochrane 2022 guidelines and was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eight studies with 1747 participants met the inclusion criteria. Interventions included telephone coaching, consultation services and individual and group education. The duration of the intervention ranged from 3 to 15 months. The results showed that nurse-led diabetes self-management programmes had positive and clinically significant effects on glycosylated haemoglobin levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the important role of nurses in improving self-management and achieving glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The positive outcomes of this review offer suggestions for health care professionals to develop effective self-management programnmes in type 2 diabetes treatment and care.

Patient Perspectives on a Tailored Self-Management Education and Support Intervention for Low-Income Seniors With Chronic Health Conditions

Background

The Assessing Outcomes of Enhanced Chronic Disease Care Through Patient Education and a Value-based Formulary Study (ACCESS) was a 2 x 2 factorial randomized trial that tested the impact of a tailored self-management education support (SMES) program, which demonstrated a 22% reduction in adverse clinical events. We sought to qualitatively explore participants' perspectives on the SMES intervention, and the ways in which it may have improved self-management skills.

Methods

We used a qualitative descriptive approach and conducted individual semistructured interviews. We conducted inductive and deductive thematic analysis using NVivo 12 (QSR International, Burlington, MA).

Results

We interviewed 20 participants who had recently completed the 3-year SMES intervention. The following 3 main themes emerged from the data: (i) empowerment; (ii) intervention acceptability; and (iii) suggestions for improvement. Regarding empowerment, we identified subthemes of health literacy, self-efficacy, self-management, and active role in health. Several participants reported that empowerment promoted health behaviour change or improved confidence in self-management. Regarding acceptability, we identified subthemes of ease of use and presentation style. Most participants expressed positive feelings toward the intervention and felt that it was easy to understand. Finally, we identified subthemes of learning style, content, and engagement strategies, within the theme of suggestions for improvement. Some participants said that the messages were too general and did not fully address the complex health concerns they had.

Conclusions

Our results highlighted key strategies to promote patient engagement and self-management behaviours and demonstrated how they may have been used to improve clinical endpoints. Additionally, we demonstrated the novel use of marketing principles in SMES interventions.

Quality improvement strategies for diabetes care: Effects on outcomes for adults living with diabetes

BACKGROUND

There is a large body of evidence evaluating quality improvement (QI) programmes to improve care for adults living with diabetes. These programmes are often comprised of multiple QI strategies, which may be implemented in various combinations. Decision-makers planning to implement or evaluate a new QI programme, or both, need reliable evidence on the relative effectiveness of different QI strategies (individually and in combination) for different patient populations.

OBJECTIVES

To update existing systematic reviews of diabetes QI programmes and apply novel meta-analytical techniques to estimate the effectiveness of QI strategies (individually and in combination) on diabetes quality of care.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL) and trials registers (ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP) to 4 June 2019. We conducted a top-up search to 23 September 2021; we screened these search results and 42 studies meeting our eligibility criteria are available in the awaiting classification section.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised trials that assessed a QI programme to improve care in outpatient settings for people living with diabetes. QI programmes needed to evaluate at least one system- or provider-targeted QI strategy alone or in combination with a patient-targeted strategy. - System-targeted: case management (CM); team changes (TC); electronic patient registry (EPR); facilitated relay of clinical information (FR); continuous quality improvement (CQI). - Provider-targeted: audit and feedback (AF); clinician education (CE); clinician reminders (CR); financial incentives (FI). - Patient-targeted: patient education (PE); promotion of self-management (PSM); patient reminders (PR). Patient-targeted QI strategies needed to occur with a minimum of one provider or system-targeted strategy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We dual-screened search results and abstracted data on study design, study population and QI strategies. We assessed the impact of the programmes on 13 measures of diabetes care, including: glycaemic control (e.g. mean glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c)); cardiovascular risk factor management (e.g. mean systolic blood pressure (SBP), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), proportion of people living with diabetes that quit smoking or receiving cardiovascular medications); and screening/prevention of microvascular complications (e.g. proportion of patients receiving retinopathy or foot screening); and harms (e.g. proportion of patients experiencing adverse hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia). We modelled the association of each QI strategy with outcomes using a series of hierarchical multivariable meta-regression models in a Bayesian framework. The previous version of this review identified that different strategies were more or less effective depending on baseline levels of outcomes. To explore this further, we extended the main additive model for continuous outcomes (HbA1c, SBP and LDL-C) to include an interaction term between each strategy and average baseline risk for each study (baseline thresholds were based on a data-driven approach; we used the median of all baseline values reported in the trials). Based on model diagnostics, the baseline interaction models for HbA1c, SBP and LDL-C performed better than the main model and are therefore presented as the primary analyses for these outcomes. Based on the model results, we qualitatively ordered each QI strategy within three tiers (Top, Middle, Bottom) based on its magnitude of effect relative to the other QI strategies, where 'Top' indicates that the QI strategy was likely one of the most effective strategies for that specific outcome. Secondary analyses explored the sensitivity of results to choices in model specification and priors.  Additional information about the methods and results of the review are available as Appendices in an online repository. This review will be maintained as a living systematic review; we will update our syntheses as more data become available.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 553 trials (428 patient-randomised and 125 cluster-randomised trials), including a total of 412,161 participants. Of the included studies, 66% involved people living with type 2 diabetes only. Participants were 50% female and the median age of participants was 58.4 years. The mean duration of follow-up was 12.5 months. HbA1c was the commonest reported outcome; screening outcomes and outcomes related to cardiovascular medications, smoking and harms were reported infrequently. The most frequently evaluated QI strategies across all study arms were PE, PSM and CM, while the least frequently evaluated QI strategies included AF, FI and CQI. Our confidence in the evidence is limited due to a lack of information on how studies were conducted.  Four QI strategies (CM, TC, PE, PSM) were consistently identified as 'Top' across the majority of outcomes. All QI strategies were ranked as 'Top' for at least one key outcome. The majority of effects of individual QI strategies were modest, but when used in combination could result in meaningful population-level improvements across the majority of outcomes. The median number of QI strategies in multicomponent QI programmes was three.  Combinations of the three most effective QI strategies were estimated to lead to the below effects:  - PR + PSM + CE: decrease in HbA1c by 0.41% (credibility interval (CrI) -0.61 to -0.22) when baseline HbA1c < 8.3%; - CM + PE + EPR: decrease in HbA1c by 0.62% (CrI -0.84 to -0.39) when baseline HbA1c > 8.3%;  - PE + TC + PSM: reduction in SBP by 2.14 mmHg (CrI -3.80 to -0.52) when baseline SBP < 136 mmHg; - CM + TC + PSM: reduction in SBP by 4.39 mmHg (CrI -6.20 to -2.56) when baseline SBP > 136 mmHg;  - TC + PE + CM: LDL-C lowering of 5.73 mg/dL (CrI -7.93 to -3.61) when baseline LDL < 107 mg/dL; - TC + CM + CR: LDL-C lowering by 5.52 mg/dL (CrI -9.24 to -1.89) when baseline LDL > 107 mg/dL. Assuming a baseline screening rate of 50%, the three most effective QI strategies were estimated to lead to an absolute improvement of 33% in retinopathy screening (PE + PR + TC) and 38% absolute increase in foot screening (PE + TC + Other).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant body of evidence about QI programmes to improve the management of diabetes. Multicomponent QI programmes for diabetes care (comprised of effective QI strategies) may achieve meaningful population-level improvements across the majority of outcomes. For health system decision-makers, the evidence summarised in this review can be used to identify strategies to include in QI programmes. For researchers, this synthesis identifies higher-priority QI strategies to examine in further research regarding how to optimise their evaluation and effects. We will maintain this as a living systematic review.

Dosing of Health and Wellness Coaching for Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: Research Synthesis to Derive Recommendations

Health and wellness coaching (HWC) is an effective intervention for lifestyle disease such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. The evolving HWC profession needs recommendations to guide clinical practice, particularly the appropriate dose of coaching. The purpose of this paper was to systematically review and synthesize HWC literature to derive HWC programming recommendations. Of 102 papers retrieved, 88 were retained with data extracted determining HWC session number, frequency, duration, program length, and total coaching load. Differential analysis yielded no statistical difference in programming variables for randomized control trials and other designs, nor for studies with significant findings v. those not finding statistical significance, allowing these data to be pooled. The HWC intervention for obesity was slightly more intense (15 sessions over 7-8 mo) than the diabetes programming (12 sessions over 9-10 mo). On average, HWC programming applied in the peer-reviewed literature was 12-15 sessions of 35-40 min duration over 7-9 months. These recommendations for HWC programming variables are put forth as initial practice guidelines and should be examined with comparative effectiveness study for optimization. HWC best practice guidelines for other patient groups (e.g., heart disease, cancer, and chronic pain) should also be studied once an adequate literature data base is available.

The Effectiveness of Telemedicine Solutions for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression

BACKGROUND

Previous systematic reviews have aimed to clarify the effect of telemedicine on diabetes. However, such reviews often have a narrow focus, which calls for a more comprehensive systematic review within the field. Hence, the objective of the present systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression is to evaluate the effectiveness of telemedicine solutions versus any comparator without the use of telemedicine on diabetes-related outcomes among adult patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

This review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We considered telemedicine randomized controlled trials (RCT) including adults (≥18 years) diagnosed with T2D. Change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c, %) was the primary outcome. PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched on October 14, 2020. An overall treatment effect was estimated using a meta-analysis performed on the pool of included studies based on the mean difference (MD). The revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool was applied and the certainty of evidence was graded using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach.

RESULTS

The final sample of papers included a total of 246, of which 168 had sufficient information to calculate the effect of HbA1c%. The results favored telemedicine, with an MD of -0.415% (95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.482% to -0.348%). The heterogeneity was great (I2 = 93.05%). A monitoring component gave rise to the higher effects of telemedicine.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, telemedicine may serve as a valuable supplement to usual care for patients with T2D. The inclusion of a telemonitoring component seems to increase the effect of telemedicine.

Effectiveness of synchronous teleconsultation for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The popularity of teleconsultation during the COVID-19 pandemic enabled increased accessibility for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, previous studies did not distinguish between synchronous and asynchronous teleconsultation. We evaluated the effectiveness of synchronous teleconsultation for patients with T2DM. We searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Library and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform databases from inception to July 2021. All included studies were randomized controlled trials of synchronous teleconsultation for adults with T2DM compared with usual care. Reviewers independently extracted data and used the Cochrane tool to evaluate risk of bias. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models. A pooled mean difference for both HbA1c (%) and body mass index (BMI) (kg/m²), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (mm Hg), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (mm Hg), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) (mg/dL) were calculated. Patient-reported outcomes, such as depression, medication adherence, and quality of life, were also assessed. A total of 9807 abstracts were identified and 27 trials were included. Synchronous teleconsultation significantly resulted in greater decrease in HbA1c compared with usual care group (n=8746, 0.35, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.49, I²=73%, p<0.001). No significant effects on BMI (n=699, 0.08 kg/m², 95% CI -0.54 to 0.69), SBP (n=5512, 1.32 mm Hg, 95% CI -0.09 to 2.73), DBP (n=2898, 0.17 mm Hg, 95% CI -1.18 to 1.52), or LDL-cholesterol (n=5276, 3.21 mg/dL, 95% CI -1.75 to 8.17) were found. The effect of teleconsultation in improving patient-reported outcomes was uncertain. Thus, synchronous teleconsultation could be an alternative to usual care. Systematic review registration is PROSPERO CRD42021267019.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Telecoaching for Self-Care Management among Persons with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

In response to the need for safe care for people with diabetes mellitus in the current outbreak of COVID-19, it is critical to evaluate the model, service delivery, feasibility, and efficiency of diabetes mellitus telecoaching.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the model and efficacy of telecoaching to improve self-care and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

This study uses the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). We searched on 22 March 2022, using keywords that matched the MeSH browser in four databases to find relevant studies, namely, PubMed/Medline, Proquest, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. Additionally, we collected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on Google Scholar using the snowball technique. A quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias tool (RoB)2. The meta-analysis used the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model to analyze the pooled mean difference (MD) and its p-value.

RESULTS

Thirteen RCT studies were included for the systematic review and meta-analysis with a total number of participants of 3300. The model of telecoaching is a form of using nurses-led telephone and mobile apps, which are relatively cost-effective. The meta-analysis showed a positively improved statistically significance in clinical outcomes, including in HbA1c (a pooled MD of -0.33; 95% CI: -0.51--0.15; p = 0.0003), blood glucose (-18.99; 95% CI: -20.89--17.09; p = 0.00001), systolic blood pressure (-2.66; 95% CI: -3.66--1.66; p = 0.00001), body mass index (-0.79; 95% CI: -1.39--0.18; p = 0.01), and weight (-2.16 kg; 95% CI: -3.95--0.38; p = 0.02). It was not, however, statistically significant in diastolic blood pressure (-0.87; 95% CI: -2.02-0.28; p = 0.14), total cholesterol (-0.07; 95% CI: -0.26-0.12; p = 0.46), low-density lipoprotein (-2.19; 95% CI: -6.70-2.31; p = 0.34), triglycerides (-13.56; 95% CI: -40.46-13.35; p = 0.32) and high-density protein (0.40; 95% CI: -1.12-1.91; p = 0.61).

CONCLUSIONS

The telecoaching with nurses-led telephone and mobile apps significantly affected clinical outcomes on HbA1c, systolic blood pressure, weight, and BMI. Moreover, there was no significant effect on the total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein. Thus, telecoaching has the potential as a care model in diabetes mellitus during COVID-19 and similar pandemics to improve self-care and clinical outcomes, but all the studies analyzed involved non-COVID-19 patients, limiting the generalizability of the results to COVID-19.

Effect of community-based nurse-led support intervention in the reduction of HbA1c levels

PURPOSE

To determine the effect of community based Nurse-led support intervention in the reduction of HbA1c levels compared to usual care.

DESIGN AND METHODS

A systematic search of four electronic databases was conducted until August 2021 including RCTs to check for a reduction in HbA1c levels in Nurse-led intervention arm.

RESULTS

Twenty-one trials involving 4649 diabetic individuals were included in the review. The pooled mean difference in the reduction of HbA1c in the intervention group was found to be -0.421 (95% CI: -0.59 to -0.25).

CONCLUSION AND EVIDENCE

Nurse-led educational intervention proved beneficial in the control of HbA1c among diabetic individuals.

Interprofessional Collaboration and Diabetes Management in Primary Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Patient-Reported Outcomes

The global spread of diabetes poses serious threats to public health requiring a patient-centered approach based both on interprofessional collaboration (IPC) given by the cooperation of several different health professionals, and patients’ perspective through the assessment of Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs). The aim of the present study is to evaluate the impact of interprofessional collaboration interventions, for the management of type 2 diabetes in primary care settings, through PROs. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted querying the PubMed, Scopus and Embase databases. Out of the 1961 papers initially retrieved, 19 met the inclusion criteria. Interprofessional collaboration is significantly associated with an increase in both patient’s satisfaction (SMD 0.32 95% CI 0.05–0.59) and in the mental well-being component of the HRQoL (SMD 0.18; 95% CI 0.06–0.30), and there was also promising evidence supporting the association between an interprofessional approach and an increase in self-care and in generic and specific quality-of-life. No statistical differences were found, supporting the positive impact on IPC interventions on the physical component of the HRQoL, depression, emotional distress, and self-efficacy. In conclusion, the effect of IPC impacts positively on the few areas assessed by PROMs. Policymakers should promote the widespread adoption of a collaborative approach as well as to endorse an active engagement of patients across the whole process of care.

Effectiveness of Remotely Delivered Interventions to Simultaneously Optimize Management of Hypertension, Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemia in People With Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

Remotely delivered interventions may be more efficient in controlling multiple risk factors in people with diabetes.

Purpose

To pool evidence from randomized controlled trials testing remote management interventions to simultaneously control blood pressure, blood glucose and lipids.

Data Sources

PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane library were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) until 20th June 2021.

Study Selection

Included RCTs were those that reported participant data on blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid outcomes in response to a remotely delivered intervention.

Data Extraction

Three authors extracted data using a predefined template. Primary outcomes were glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP & DBP). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane collaboration RoB-2 tool. Meta-analyses are reported as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI).

Data Synthesis

Twenty-seven RCTs reporting on 9100 participants (4581 intervention and 4519 usual care) were included. Components of the remote management interventions tested were identified as patient education, risk factor monitoring, coaching on monitoring, consultations, and pharmacological management. Comparator groups were typically face-to-face usual patient care. Remote management significantly reduced HbA1c (SMD -0.25, 95%CI -0.33 to -0.17, p<0.001), TC (SMD -0.17, 95%CI -0.29 to -0.04, p<0.0001), LDL-c (SMD -0.11, 95%CI -0.19 to -0.03, p=0.006), SBP (SMD -0.11, 95%CI -0.18 to -0.04, p=0.001) and DBP (SMD -0.09, 95%CI -0.16 to -0.02, p=0.02), with low to moderate heterogeneity (I²= 0 to 75). Twelve trials had high risk of bias, 12 had some risk and three were at low risk of bias.

Limitations

Heterogeneity and potential publication bias may limit applicability of findings.

Conclusions

Remote management significantly improves control of modifiable risk factors.

Systematic Review Registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=258433], identifier PROSPERO (CRD42021258433).

Community Health Programs Delivered Through Information and Communications Technology in High-Income Countries: Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has required widespread and rapid adoption of information and communications technology (ICT) platforms by health professionals. Transitioning health programs from face-to-face to remote delivery using ICT platforms has introduced new challenges.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review is to scope for ICT-delivered health programs implemented within the community health setting in high-income countries and rapidly disseminate findings to health professionals.

METHODS

The Joanna Briggs Institute's scoping review methodology guided the review of the literature.

RESULTS

The search retrieved 7110 unique citations. Each title and abstract was screened by at least two reviewers, resulting in 399 citations for full-text review. Of these 399 citations, 72 (18%) were included. An additional 27 citations were identified through reviewing the reference lists of the included studies, resulting in 99 citations. Citations examined 83 ICT-delivered programs from 19 high-income countries. Variations in program design, ICT platforms, research design, and outcomes were evident.

CONCLUSIONS

Included programs and research were heterogeneous, addressing prevalent chronic diseases. Evidence was retrieved for the effectiveness of nurse and allied health ICT-delivered programs. Findings indicated that outcomes for participants receiving ICT-delivered programs, when compared with participants receiving in-person programs, were either equivalent or better. Gaps included a paucity of co-designed programs, qualitative research around group programs, programs for patients and carers, and evaluation of cost-effectiveness. During COVID-19 and beyond, health professionals in the community health setting are encouraged to build on existing knowledge and address evidence gaps by developing and evaluating innovative ICT-delivered programs in collaboration with consumers and carers.

Factors Affecting the Reception of Self-Management Health Education: A Cross-Sectional Survey Assessing Perspectives of Lower-Income Seniors with Cardiovascular Conditions

INTRODUCTION

Self-management education and support (SMES) programs can prevent adverse chronic disease outcomes, but factors modifying their reception remain relatively unexplored. We examined how perceptions of an SMES program were influenced by the mode of delivery, and co-receipt of a paired financial benefit.

METHODS AND PATIENTS

Using a cross-sectional survey, we evaluated the perceived helpfulness of a SMES program among 446 low-income seniors at high risk for cardiovascular events in Alberta, Canada. Secondary outcomes included frequency of use, changes in perspectives on health, satisfaction with the program, and comprehensibility of the material. Participants received surveys after engaging with the program for at least 6 months. We used modified Poisson regression to calculate relative risks. Open-ended questions were analyzed inductively.

RESULTS

The majority of participants reported that the SMES program was helpful (>80%). Those who also received the financial benefit (elimination of medication copayments) were more likely to report that the SMES program was helpful (RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.11-1.39). Those who received the program electronically were more likely to use the program weekly (RR 1.51, 1.25-1.84). Both those who received the intervention electronically (RR 1.18, 1.06-1.33), and those who also received copayment elimination (RR 1.17, 1.05-1.31) were more likely to state that the program helped change their perspectives on health.

CONCLUSION

When designing SMES programs, providing the option for electronic delivery appears to promote greater use for seniors. The inclusion of online-delivery and co-receipt of tangible benefits when designing an SMES program for seniors results in favorable reception and could facilitate sustained adherence to health behavior recommendations. Participants also specifically expressed that what they enjoyed most was that the SMES program was informative, helpful, engaging, and supportive.

Health Coaching Strategies for Weight Loss: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Health coaching has emerged as a potential supporting tool for health professionals to overcome behavioral barriers, but its efficacy in weight management remains unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize and evaluate the quality of evidence supporting the use of self-reported health coaching for weight loss. Seven electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, Psyinfo, Virtual Health Library, and Scielo) were independently searched from inception to May 2020. This review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation recommendations. Any study that investigated a self-reported health coaching intervention with the goal of inducing weight loss in individuals of any age, health, or training status was considered for inclusion. Quantitative data were analyzed using multilevel hierarchical metaregression models conducted within a Bayesian framework. A total of 653 studies were screened and 38 were selected for inclusion. The quality of evidence supporting outcomes based on the entire evidence base was very low and studies were deemed to have high risk of bias. Meta-analysis of controlled studies provided evidence of an effect favoring coaching compared with usual care but was trivial in magnitude [effect size (ES)0.5: -0.09; 95% credible interval (CrI): -0.17, -0.02]. The multilevel extension of Egger's regression-intercept test indicated the existence of publication bias, whereas a sensitivity analysis based only on those studies deemed to be of high quality provided no evidence of an effect of coaching on weight loss (ES0.5: -0.04; 95% CrI: -0.12, 0.09). Considered collectively, the results of this investigation indicate that the available evidence is not of sufficient quality to support the use of self-reported health coaching as a health care intervention for weight loss. This trial was registered at Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) as CRD42020159023.

Trends in diabetes care and education by primary health care nurses in Auckland, New Zealand

AIMS

To examine trends in the management of patients with diabetes by primary health care nurses, its association with diabetes education and how valued and supported nurses feel in Auckland, New Zealand.

METHODS

Two representative cross-sectional surveys of all nurses providing community-based care, and patients with diabetes they consult, were conducted in 2006-8 and 2016. All participants completed a self-administered questionnaire on biographical details and a telephone interview on their provision of diabetes care.

RESULTS

Significantly more nurses discussed serum glucose and medications with patients, planned follow-up and scheduled practice nurse appointments in 2016 compared with 2006-8, and fewer specialist diabetologist appointments were made (12% versus 2%). Fewer nurses in 2016 than in 2006-8 felt valued (62% versus 75%) and supported (78% versus 89%) when managing patients (p-values = 0.0004). Nurses diabetes education was associated with recommended practice and feeling valued. Significantly more patients were prescribed metformin (81%) and insulin (46%) in 2016 compared with 58% and 30% in 2006-8. Despite this, HbA_1c levels remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

Prescribed glycaemic-related medications increased, and more nurses engaged with patients about glycaemic control and medications in 2016 compared with 2006-8. Nurses undertaking diabetes education was strongly associated with best management practices and nurses feeling valued.

Imputing intracluster correlation coefficients from a posterior predictive distribution is a feasible method of dealing with unit of analysis errors in a meta-analysis of cluster RCTs

BACKGROUND

Incorporating cluster randomized trials (CRTs) into meta-analyses is challenging because appropriate standard errors of study estimates accounting for clustering are not always reported. Systematic reviews of CRTs often use a single constant external estimate of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) to adjust study estimate standard errors and facilitate meta-analyses; an approach that fails to account for possible variation of ICCs among studies and the imprecision with which they are estimated. Using a large systematic review of the effects of diabetes quality improvement interventions, we investigated whether we could better account for ICC variation and uncertainty in meta-analyzed effect estimates by imputing missing ICCs from a posterior predictive distribution constructed from a database of relevant ICCs.

METHODS

We constructed a dataset of ICC estimates from applicable studies. For outcomes with two or more available ICC estimates, we constructed posterior predictive ICC distributions in a Bayesian framework. For a selected continuous outcome, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), we compared the impact of incorporating a single constant ICC versus imputing ICCs drawn from the posterior predictive distribution when estimating the effect of intervention components on post treatment mean in a case study of diabetes quality improvement trials.

RESULTS

Using internal and external ICC estimates, we were able to construct a database of 59 ICCs for 12 of the 13 review outcomes (range 1-10 per outcome) and estimate the posterior predictive ICC distribution for 11 review outcomes. Synthesized results were not markedly changed by our approach for HbA1c.

CONCLUSION

Building posterior predictive distributions to impute missing ICCs is a feasible approach to facilitate principled meta-analyses of cluster randomized trials using prior data. Further work is needed to establish whether the application of these methods leads to improved review inferences for different reviews based on different factors (e.g., proportion of CRTs and CRTs with missing ICCs, different outcomes, variation and precision of ICCs).

Health coaching provided by registered nurses described: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

Aims

The aim of this systematic review and narrative synthesis was to identify how and why health coaching is delivered by Registered Nurses.

Design

Systematic review and narrative synthesis.

Data sources

Articles were identified through a search of CINAHL, Medline, Scopus, and PsychINFO databases. Articles published in English between 2010 and 2021 were included.

Review Methods

Quality appraisal of relevant literature was independently undertaken by two authors to assess for risk of bias. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) was used to appraise quality of potential papers.

Results

A main purpose of coaching by Registered Nurses is to optimise patient self-care. How coaching was conducted varied across studies, with the most common coaching approaches via telephone or online. Majority of studies highlight some effectiveness of coaching by nurses; however, some results were inconclusive. Health coaching generally reduced mental distress. Other benefits reported by patients included reduced pain and fatigue. Outcomes for changing lifestyle behaviours were mixed. However, for health coaching to be efficient greater evidence is needed to determine length of time to use coaching, number of habits to focus on to produce change, and to determine best training for coaches.

Conclusions

Registered Nurses are most suitable for implementing health coaching for self-care, including preventing and managing chronic illness and recovering from situations like post-surgical needs. Nurses already promote health, and therefore, are skilled in educating people in self-care. Coaching is an additional strategy for motivating, targeting and assessing progress of self-care. Extending the scope of nursing practice to routinely coach in self-care would be ideal.

Strategy to reduce adverse health outcomes in subjects highly vulnerable to COVID-19: results from a population-based study in Northern Italy

OBJECTIVES

This study describes a new strategy to reduce the impact of COVID-19 on the elderly and other clinically vulnerable subjects, where general practitioners (GPs) play an active role in managing high-risk patients, reducing adverse health outcomes.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Population-based study including subjects resident in the province of Milan and Lodi.

PARTICIPANTS

127 735 residents older than 70 years, with specific chronic conditions.

INTERVENTIONS

We developed a predictive algorithm for overall mortality risk based on demographic and clinical characteristics. All residents older than 70 years were classified as being at low or high risk of death from COVID-19 infection according to the algorithm. The high-risk group was assigned to their GPs for telephone triage and consultation. The high-risk cohort was divided into two groups based on GP intervention: patients who were not contacted and patients who were contacted by their GPs.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Overall mortality, COVID-19 morbidity and hospitalisation.

RESULTS

Patients with increased risk of death from COVID-19 were 127 735; 495 669 patients were not at high risk and were not included in the intervention. Out of the high-risk subjects, 79 110 were included but not contacted by their GPs, while 48 625 high-risk subjects were included and contacted. Overall mortality, morbidity and hospitalisation was higher in high-risk patients compared with low-risk populations. High-risk patients contacted by their GPs had a 50% risk reduction in COVID-19 mortality, and a 70% risk reduction in morbidity and hospitalisation for COVID-19 compared with non-contacted patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The study showed that, during the COVID-19 outbreak, involvement of GPs and changes in care management of high-risk groups produced a significant reduction in all adverse health outcomes.

Use of Virtual Care for Glycemic Management in People With Types 1 and 2 Diabetes and Diabetes in Pregnancy: A Rapid Review

Our objective in this study was to answer the main research question: In patients with diabetes, does virtual care vs face-to-face care provide different clinical, patient and practitioner experience or quality outcomes? Articles (2012 to 2020) describing interventions using virtual care with the capability for 2-way, individualized interactions compared with usual care were included. Studies involving any patients with diabetes and outcomes of glycated hemoglobin (A1C), quality of care and/or patient or health-care practitioner experience were included. Systematic reviews, randomized controlled studies, quasi-experimental trials, implementation trials, observational studies and qualitative analyses were reviewed. MEDLINE and McMaster Health Evidence databases searched in June 2020 identified 59 articles. Virtual care, in particular telemonitoring, combined with a means of 2-way communications provided improvement in A1C similar or superior to usual care, with the strongest evidence for type 2 diabetes. Virtual care was generally acceptable to patients, who expressed satisfaction with their care. Health-care providers recognized benefits but raised issues of technical support, workflow and compensation.

Effect of Telemetric Interventions on Glycated Hemoglobin A1c and Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Systematic Meta-Review

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic burden, with a prevalence that is increasing worldwide. Telemetric interventions have attracted great interest and may provide effective new therapeutic approaches for improving type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) care.

Objective

The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical effectiveness of telemetric interventions on glycated hemoglobin A_1c (HbA_1c) specifically and T2DM management generally in a systematic meta-review.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science Core Collection, and EMBASE databases from January 2008 to April 2020. Studies that addressed HbA_1c, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, BMI, diabetes-related and health-related quality of life, cost-effectiveness, time savings, and the clinical effectiveness of telemetric interventions were analyzed. In total, 73 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 10 systematic reviews/meta-analyses, 9 qualitative studies, 2 cohort studies, 2 nonrandomized controlled studies, 2 observational studies, and 1 noncontrolled intervention study were analyzed.

Results

Overall, 1647 citations were identified. After careful screening, 99 studies (n=15,939 patients; n=82,436 patient cases) were selected by two independent reviewers for inclusion in the review. Telemetric interventions were categorized according to communication channels to health care providers: (1) “real-time video” interventions, (2) “real-time audio” interventions, (3) “asynchronous” interventions, and (4) “combined” interventions. To analyze changes in HbA_1c, suitable RCTs were pooled and the average was determined. An HbA_1c decrease of –1.15% (95% CI –1.84% to –0.45%), yielding an HbA_1c value of 6.95% (SD 0.495), was shown in studies using 6-month “real-time video” interventions.

Conclusions

Telemetric interventions clearly improve HbA_1c values in both the short term and the long term and contribute to the effective management of T2DM. More studies need to be done in greater detail.

Effects of telephone-based health coaching on patient-reported outcomes and health behavior change: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Telephone based health coaching (TBHC) seems to be a promising approach to foster self-management in patients with chronic conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a TBHC on patient-reported outcomes and health behavior for people living with chronic conditions in Germany.

METHODS

Patients insured at a statutory health insurance were randomized to an intervention group (IG; TBHC) and a control group (CG; usual care), using a stratified random allocation before giving informed consent (Zelen's single-consent design). The TBHC was based on motivational interviewing, goal setting, and shared decision-making and carried out by trained nurses. All outcomes were assessed yearly for three years. We used mixed effects models utilizing all available data in a modified intention-to-treat sample for the main analysis. Participants and study centers were included as random effects. All models were adjusted for age, education and campaign affiliation.

RESULTS

Of the 10,815 invited patients, 4,283 returned their questionnaires at baseline. The mean age was 67.23 years (SD = 9.3); 55.5% were female. According to the model, TBHC was statistically significant superior to CG regarding 6 of 19 outcomes: physical activity in hours per week (p = .030) and in metabolic rate per week (p = .048), BMI (p = .009) (although mainly at baseline), measuring blood pressure (p< .001), patient activation (p< .001), and health literacy (p< .001). Regarding stages of change (p = .005), the IG group also showed statistically different results than the CG group, however the conclusion remains inconclusive. Within-group contrasts indicating changes from baseline to follow-ups and significant between-group comparisons regarding these changes supported the findings. Standardized effect sizes were small. TBHC did not show any effect on mental QoL, health status, alcohol, smoking, adherence, measuring blood sugar, foot monitoring, anxiety, depression and distress. Campaign-specific subgroup effects were detected for 'foot monitoring by a physician' and 'blood sugar measurement'.

CONCLUSION

TBHC interventions might have small effects on some patient reported and behavioral outcomes.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Future research should focus on analyzing which intervention components are effective and who profits most from TBHC interventions.

REGISTRATION

German Clinical Trials Register (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien; DRKS): DRKS00000584.

Effectiveness of Short-Term Health Coaching on Diabetes Control and Self-Management Efficacy: A Quasi-Experimental Trial

Introduction: The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness in HbA1c lowering and self-efficacy of diabetes self-management of a 6 months coaching intervention.

Methods: This paper was a two-armed coaching intervention study in which 116 participants who presented type 2 diabetes were recruited at a medical center. The intervention group had health coaching and usual care for 6 months, whereas the control had usual care only. The main outcome variables were HbA1c level and self-efficacy of diabetes self-management, in followed-up measure at 3 and 6 months.

Results: We found that an approximate 0.68% (CI = 0.40 to 0.96) reduction in HbA1c was achieved after a 6-month health coaching. Both physical activity and self-efficacy of diabetes self-management were shown to benefit by health coaching.

Conclusions: Health coaching might be an effective strategy to enhance self-management for diabetes patients in Taiwan where “Diabetes Shared Care Network” had been implemented for over 20 years. Consider limitations of this study, more studies with designs that yield higher quality evidence for the role of health coaching in diabetic patients are needed.

Clinical Trial Registration:www.isrctn.com (ID number: ISRCTN52454940, date: 10 May, 2018, retrospectively registered).

Effectiveness of Short-Term Health Coaching on Diabetes Control and Self-Management Efficacy: A Quasi-Experimental Trial

Introduction: The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness in HbA1c lowering and self-efficacy of diabetes self-management of a 6 months coaching intervention. Methods: This paper was a two-armed coaching intervention study in which 116 participants who presented type 2 diabetes were recruited at a medical center. The intervention group had health coaching and usual care for 6 months, whereas the control had usual care only. The main outcome variables were HbA1c level and self-efficacy of diabetes self-management, in followed-up measure at 3 and 6 months. Results: We found that an approximate 0.68% (CI = 0.40 to 0.96) reduction in HbA1c was achieved after a 6-month health coaching. Both physical activity and self-efficacy of diabetes self-management were shown to benefit by health coaching. Conclusions: Health coaching might be an effective strategy to enhance self-management for diabetes patients in Taiwan where "Diabetes Shared Care Network" had been implemented for over 20 years. Consider limitations of this study, more studies with designs that yield higher quality evidence for the role of health coaching in diabetic patients are needed. Clinical Trial Registration: www.isrctn.com (ID number: ISRCTN52454940, date: 10 May, 2018, retrospectively registered).

Telecoaching programme for type 2 diabetes control: a randomised clinical trial

BACKGROUND:

People with diabetes have a high risk of developing micro and macrovascular complications that increase treatment costs and shorten life expectancy. Telecoaching programmes can improve short-term control of diabetes and reduce disease burden.

AIMS:

To analyse the effect of a health telecoaching programme in the control of type 2 diabetes.

METHODS:

A pragmatic clinical trial was carried out. Thirty-one patients with type 2 diabetes were divided into control and intervention groups. The control group received usual nursing care, and those in the intervention group received usual care and telecoaching for 24 weeks.

FINDINGS:

The intervention group improved: measurements of abdominal circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and body mass index; variables related to glycaemic control (fasting venous glucose and glycated haemoglobin/HbA1c); and high-density lipoprotein levels.

CONCLUSION:

The data indicate that telecoaching is an effective tool for diabetes management. It is recommended that the study should be developed to include more people and run over the long term.

Nurse-Led Telephone Follow-Up to Improve Parent Promotion of Healthy Behaviors in Young Children With Motivational Interviewing Techniques

INTRODUCTION

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends primary care-based health promotion for obesity prevention at all visits, focusing on nutrition and activity.

METHODS

In this quality improvement project, a primary care innovation was developed to support parents in promoting healthy habits in their children ages 2 to 5 years old. Nurse-led telephone support using motivational interviewing was implemented during two follow-up phone calls aimed at helping parent-child dyads reach self-created activity or nutrition goals.

RESULTS

Parent-rated confidence and motivation related to meeting these goals showed significant increases. During the second call, 80% self-reported goal completion and high satisfaction with the visits. Registered nurses reported a significant increase in their self-efficacy of communication with parents.

DISCUSSION

This project showed the feasibility of using nurse telephone visits in an urban low-income primary care setting to improve parental recognition and understanding of healthy habits that align with American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations for obesity prevention.

The clinical effectiveness of nursing models of diabetes care: A synthesis of the evidence

OBJECTIVES

To determine the clinical effectiveness (glycemic control, other biological measures, cost-effectiveness and patient satisfaction) of primary care nurse-led interventions for diabetes.

DESIGN

A systematic review following methods described for complex interventions and using PRISMA guidelines for reporting was undertaken. Nurse-led care for diabetes can be regarded as a complex intervention requiring the measurement of more than one outcome and for this reason we chose a range of outcomes clinical (symptoms), patient-centred (experiences) and organisational (cost-effectiveness).

DATA SOURCES

An extensive literature search using MEDLINE (PubMed) EMBASE, and CINAHL was conducted.

REVIEW METHODS

Primary studies with adults in primary care with both quantitative (comparison with physician-led care and cost-effectiveness) and qualitative (patient experiences of nurse-led care) methodologies from 2003 until June 2018. All studies were appraised using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. The appraisal involved evaluation of the degree of risk of bias in selection, performance, detection, attrition and reporting. Because of the complexity of multiple outcomes (quantitative and qualitative) a narrative synthesis was undertaken.

RESULTS

The search generated 18 published studies that met our eligibility criteria. Three randomized controlled trials and one historical control trial found statistically significant differences in glycemic levels in favour of the nurse-led interventions. Two cluster randomized trials, two randomized pragmatic trials and two randomized controlled trials found no differences between groups. The three open-label studies found statistically significant improvements in HbA1c levels. The audit identified that more patients had lower HbA1c levels after the initiation of a nurse-led intervention. Three randomized controlled trials found significant improvements in biological outcomes and one did not. The four studies measuring cost-effectiveness found the nurse-led intervention was associated with less costs. Four studies examined patient satisfaction with nurse-led care and found this was very good.

CONCLUSION

This review which incorporated a broad range of studies to capture the complexity of nurse-led interventions has identified that there is evolving evidence that nurse-led interventions for community treatment of diabetes may be more clinically effective than usual physician-led care.

The Impact of Population-Based Disease Management Services on Health Care Utilisation and Costs: Results of the CAPICHe Trial

BACKGROUND

Disease management programmes may improve quality of care, improve health outcomes and potentially reduce total healthcare costs. To date, only one very large population-based study has been undertaken and indicated reductions in hospital admissions > 10%.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to confirm the effectiveness of population-based disease management programmes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relative impact on healthcare utilisation and cost of participants the Costs to Australian Private Insurance - Coaching Health (CAPICHe) trial.

DESIGN

Parallel-group randomised controlled trial, intention-to-treat analysis SETTING: Australian population PARTICIPANTS: Forty-four thousand four hundred eighteen individuals (18-90 years of age) with private health insurance and diagnosis of heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes, or low back pain, with predicted high cost claims for the following 12 months.

INTERVENTION

Health coaching for disease management from Bupa Health Dialog, vs Usual Care.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Total cost of claims per member to the private health insurer 1 year post-randomisation for hospital admissions, including same-day, medical and prostheses hospital claims, excluding any maternity costs. Analysis was based on the intent-to-treat population.

RESULTS

Estimated total cost 1 year post-randomisation was not significantly different (means: intervention group A$4934; 95% CI A$4823-A$5045 vs control group A$4868; 95% CI A$4680-A$5058; p = 0.524). However, the intervention group had significantly lower same-day admission costs (A$468; 95% CI A$454-A$482 vs A$508; 95% CI A$484-A$533; p = 0.002) and fewer same-day admissions per 1000 person-years (intervention group, 530; 95% CI 508-552 vs control group, 614; 95% CI 571-657; p = 0.002). Subgroup analyses indicated that the intervention group had significantly fewer admissions for patients with COPD and fewer same-day admissions for patients with diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic disease health coaching was not effective to reduce the total cost after 12 months of follow-up for higher risk individuals with a chronic condition. Statistically significant changes were found with fewer same-day admissions; however, these did not translate into cost savings from a private health insurance perspective.

The Effects of Nurse-Led Multidisciplinary Team Management on Glycosylated Hemoglobin, Quality of Life, Hospitalization, and Help-Seeking Behavior of People with Diabetes Mellitus

AIM

To evaluate the effect of community-nurse-led multidisciplinary team management on glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), quality of life (QOL), hospitalization, and help-seeking behavior in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

METHODS

A quasi-experimental trial was conducted among people with type 2 DM from two community centers in China. The intervention group (n = 88) received community-nurse-led multidisciplinary team management for 2 years, while the control group (n = 91) received usual care. Data regarding HbA1c, QOL (assessed by the SF-36), hospitalization, and help-seeking behavior were collected at baseline and at 6, 12, and 24 months.

RESULTS

During the 24-month project, the intervention group demonstrated 1.08% reduction in HbA1c, whereas the control group achieved an increase of 0.45%. The differences between the two groups were statistically significant (P < 0.001). The intervention group showed greater increased in QOL scores (from 66.43 to 70.47, P < 0.001), more decrease in hospitalization (OR = 2.981, 95% CI: 1.016, 8.752 versus OR = 1.189, 95% CI: 0.411, 3.444; P = 0.028) when compared with the control group. The percentage increase of seeking help from nurses in the intervention group (from 12.5% to 57.3%, P < 0.001) was significantly greater than that in the control group after the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurse-led multidisciplinary team management is an effective intervention for improving glycemic control, QOL, hospitalization, and help-seeking behavior for people with DM in a community.

Improving care for older people with long-term conditions and social care needs in Salford: the CLASSIC mixed-methods study, including RCT

Background

The Salford Integrated Care Programme (SICP) was a large-scale transformation project to improve care for older people with long-term conditions and social care needs. We report an evaluation of the ability of the SICP to deliver an enhanced experience of care, improved quality of life, reduced costs of care and improved cost-effectiveness.

Objectives

To explore the process of implementation of the SICP and the impact on patient outcomes and costs.

Design

Qualitative methods (interviews and observations) to explore implementation, a cohort multiple randomised controlled trial to assess patient outcomes through quasi-experiments and a formal trial, and an analysis of routine data sets and appropriate comparators using non-randomised methodologies.

Setting

Salford in the north-west of England.

Participants

Older people aged ≥ 65 years, carers, and health and social care professionals.

Interventions

A large-scale integrated care project with three core mechanisms of integration (community assets, multidisciplinary groups and an ‘integrated contact centre’).

Main outcome measures

Patient self-management, care experience and quality of life, and health-care utilisation and costs.

Data sources

Professional and patient interviews, patient self-report measures, and routine quantitative data on service utilisation.

Results

The SICP and subsequent developments have been sustained by strong partnerships between organisations. The SICP achieved ‘functional integration’ through the pooling of health and social care budgets, the development of the Alliance Agreement between four organisations and the development of the shared care record. ‘Service-level’ integration was slow and engagement with general practice was a challenge. We saw only minor changes in patient experience measures over the period of the evaluation (both improvements and reductions), with some increase in the use of community assets and care plans. Compared with other sites, the difference in the rates of admissions showed an increase in emergency admissions. Patient experience of health coaching was largely positive, although the effects of health coaching on activation and depression were not statistically significant. Economic analyses suggested that coaching was likely to be cost-effective, generating improvements in quality of life [mean incremental quality-adjusted life-year gain of 0.019, 95% confidence interval (CI) –0.006 to 0.043] at increased cost (mean incremental total cost increase of £150.58, 95% CI –£470.611 to £711.776).

Limitations

The Comprehensive Longitudinal Assessment of Salford Integrated Care study represents a single site evaluation, with consequent limits on external validity. Patient response rates to the cohort survey were < 40%.

Conclusions

The SICP has been implemented in a way that is consistent with the original vision. However, there has been more rapid success in establishing new integrated structures (such as a formal integrated care organisation), rather than in delivering mechanisms of integration at sufficient scale to have a large impact on patient outcomes.

Future work

Further research could focus on each of the mechanisms of integration. The multidisciplinary groups may require improved targeting of patients or disease subgroups to demonstrate effectiveness. Development of a proven model of health coaching that can be implemented at scale is required, especially one that would provide cost savings for commissioners or providers. Similarly, further exploration is required to assess the longer-term benefits of community assets and whether or not health impacts translate to reductions in care use.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN12286422.

Funding

This project was funded by the NIHR Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full inHealth Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 6, No. 31. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Health Coaching in Severe COPD After a Hospitalization: A Qualitative Analysis of a Large Randomized Study

BACKGROUND

We recently demonstrated in a randomized study the feasibility and effectiveness of telephone-based health coaching using motivational interviewing on decreasing hospital readmissions and improving quality of life at 6 and 12 months after hospital discharge. In this qualitative study, we sought to explore the health-coaching intervention as seen from the perspective of the participants who received the intervention and the coaches who delivered it.

METHODS

Semistructured participant interviews (n = 24) and a focus group of all health coaches (n = 3) who participated in this study were conducted. Interviews and focus group were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analyzed using coding and categorizing techniques and thematic analysis. Mixed-method triangulation was used to merge quantitative and qualitative data.

RESULTS

Content analysis revealed 4 predominant themes of the coaching intervention: health-coaching relationship, higher participant confidence and reassurance (most related to improvement in physical quality of life), improved health-care system access (most related to decreased hospital readmissions), and increased awareness of COPD symptoms (most related to improvement in emotional quality of life). The strongest theme was the relationship with the health coach, including coach style and motivational interviewing approach. Health coaches' focus group also noted the importance of the coaching relationship as the most significant theme.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provided themes to further inform the delivery and implementation of health-coaching interventions in patients with COPD after hospital discharge. Health coaching forged partnerships and created a platform for patient engagement, which was confirmed by both participants and health coaches.

What are the contents of patient engagement interventions for older adults? A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To describe the contents of interventions reported in RCTs focusing on patient engagement of older adults.

METHODS

A systematic literature review based on a search for "patient engagement/activation/empowerment/involvement/participation". Interventions were classified according to: (i) specific components (micro level), (ii) single/multiple dimensions (educational, behavioral, affective) (meso level), and (iii) the studies' main educational, behavioral or affective dimension (macro level).

RESULTS

After screening 2749 articles, 35 were included. 20 unique components were identified, mostly behavioral or educational (45.5% each) (e.g., goal setting or written informational materials). Most interventions with a single-focus were classified as educational (31%), one was solely affective (3%). Half of the interventions covered more than one dimension, with four (11%) combining all three dimensions. Studies mainly focusing on the affective dimension included older participants (72 vs. 67 years), had a higher proportion of females (71% vs. 44%), and included other dimensions more frequently (67% vs. 31%) than did studies with a main focus on the educational dimension.

CONCLUSION

The contents of the interventions that focused on patient engagement of older adults tend to focus more on behavioral and educational dimensions than the affective dimension.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

The possibility of adding the affective dimension into behavioral and/or educational interventions should be explored.

Personal Health Coaching as a Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Self-Management Strategy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

OBJECTIVE

Personal health coaching (PHC) programs have become increasingly utilized as a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) self-management intervention strategy. This article evaluates the impact of PHC programs on glycemic management and related psychological outcomes.

DATA SOURCES

Electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science).

STUDY INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA

Randomized controlled trials (RCT) published between January 1990 and September 2017 and focused on the effectiveness of PHC interventions in adults with T2DM.

DATA EXTRACTION

Using prespecified format guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Quantitative synthesis for primary (ie, hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]) and qualitative synthesis for selected psychological outcomes.

RESULTS

Meta-analyses of 22 selected publications showed PHC interventions favorably impact HbA1c levels in studies with follow-ups at ≤3 months (-0.32% [95% confidence interval, CI = -0.55 to -0.09%]), 4 to 6 months (-0.50% [95% CI = -0.65 to -0.35%], 7 to 9 months (-0.66% [95% CI = -1.04 to -0.28%]), and 12 to 18 months (-0.24% [95% CI = -0.38 to -0.10%]). Subsequent subgroup analyses led to no conclusive patterns, except for greater magnitude of effect size in studies with conventional (2-arm) RCT design.

CONCLUSIONS

The PHC appears effective in improving glycemic control. Further research is required to assess the effectiveness of specific program components, training, and supervision approaches and to determine the cost-effectiveness of PHC interventions.

Diabetes structured self-management education programmes: a narrative review and current innovations

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are associated with long-term complications that can be prevented or delayed by intensive glycaemic management. People who are empowered and skilled to self-manage their diabetes have improved health outcomes. Over the past 20 years, diabetes self-management education programmes have been shown to be efficacious and cost-effective in promotion and facilitation of self-management, with improvements in patients' knowledge, skills, and motivation leading to improved biomedical, behavioural, and psychosocial outcomes. Diabetes self-management education programmes, developed robustly with an evidence-based structured curriculum, vary in their method of delivery, content, and use of technology, person-centred philosophy, and specific aims. They are delivered by trained educators, and monitored for quality by independent assessors and routine audit. Self-management education should be tailored to specific populations, taking into consideration the type of diabetes, and ethnic, social, cognitive, literacy, and cultural factors. Ways to improve access to and uptake of diabetes self-management programmes are needed globally.