Diabetes self-management education: miles to go

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.

Role of Caregivers in Remote Management of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Systematic Review of Literature

BACKGROUND

With the growing use of remote monitoring technologies in the management of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), caregivers are becoming important resources that can be tapped into to improve patient care.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to summarize the role of caregivers in the remote monitoring of patients with T2DM.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review in MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science up to 2022. Studies that evaluated the role of caregivers in remote management of adult patients with T2DM were included. Outcomes such as diabetes control, adherence to medication, quality of life, frequency of home glucose monitoring, and health care use were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 1198 identified citations, 11 articles were included. The majority of studies were conducted in North America (7/11, 64%) and South America (2/11, 18%). The main types of caregivers studied were family or friends (10/11, 91%), while the most common remote monitoring modalities evaluated were interactive voice response (5/11, 45%) and phone consultations (4/11, 36%). With regard to diabetes control, 3 of 6 studies showed improvement in diabetes-related laboratory parameters. A total of 2 studies showed improvements in patients' medication adherence rates and frequency of home glucose monitoring. Studies that evaluated patients' quality of life showed mixed evidence. In 1 study, increased hospitalization rates were noted in the intervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

Caregivers may play a role in improving clinical outcomes among patients with T2DM under remote monitoring. Studies on mobile health technologies are lacking to understand their impact on Asian populations and long-term patient outcomes.

The Effects of Diabetes Self-Management Education on Quality of Life for Persons With Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

PURPOSE

It is well documented that chronic conditions, such as diabetes, impact quality of life (QoL). QoL assessment is essential when developing and evaluating diabetes self-management education support interventions. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence and gaps in the research and the impact of diabetes self-management education (DSME) on QoL outcomes in persons with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

METHODS

A systematic review of English language studies published between January 1, 2007, and March 31, 2020, was conducted using a modified Cochrane review method. Studies were included if they were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), participants had T1DM with or without caregivers, a DSME intervention alone or a component(s) of the ADCES7™ Self-Care Behaviors was described, and QoL was a primary or secondary outcome. A 3-tiered review process was utilized for selecting articles. Retained articles were assessed for risk of bias.

RESULTS

Nineteen articles, reporting on 17 RCTs, met inclusion criteria, of which 7 studies reported QoL as the primary outcome and 10 as a secondary outcome. Seven studies detected significant impact of DMSE on QoL outcomes in either the participants or family caregivers, which varied in participant populations, selection of QoL tools (generic vs diabetes-specific), intervention type, intervention length, and type of interventionist.

CONCLUSION

DSME has the potential to influence QoL outcomes in people with T1DM. Research using more standardized methods are needed to delineate impact on a broader range of factors that influence QoL for those living with T1DM across the life span and their caregivers.

Development and evaluation of self-care intervention to improve self-care practices among people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a mixed-methods study protocol

INTRODUCTION

The management of diabetes mellitus (DM) depends on medication adherence, self-care and regular follow-up to prevent complications and premature mortality. This study aims to develop and implement the behavioural change theory and model based diabetes self-care intervention package to improve self-care practices among people living with type 2 DM.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

An exploratory sequential mixed-method study design wherein, quantitative follows qualitative will be used to develop, implement and evaluate the effect of diabetes self-care intervention package among people living with type 2 diabetes. The qualitative research method will be used to identify barriers and facilitators for self-care practices among people living with type 2 DM and will also provide the basis for the development of the diabetes self-care intervention package. The quasi-experimental with control study design will be used to evaluate the developed intervention package among 220 randomly selected people living with type 2 diabetes in both intervention and control arms. Baseline, follow-ups and endline data will be collected using same prevalidated and structured questionnaire for each self-care activity. Difference-in-difference analysis will be used to measure for changes in the proportion of people living with type 2 DM doing different component of self-care practices, preintervention and postintervention in both arms.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Permission for conducting the study has been taken from Institutional Ethical Committee of PGIMER, Chandigarh (Ref no. NK/4538/PhD/226, Dated 18.08.18). The findings of the trial will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

CTRI/2018/10/016108; Pre-results.

Delivering the Same Intervention to Hispanic/Latinos With Pre-diabetes and Diabetes. Early Evidence of Success in a Longitudinal Mixed Method Study

BACKGROUND

Despite nationwide efforts to address the diabetes epidemic and reduce prevalence disparities, higher rates persist among the poor, especially those with limited literacy. Currently, individuals with abnormal glycemia who have pre-diabetes and diabetes qualify for different programs. However, evidence suggests that, for low-income Hispanic/Latinos, offering a single intervention to all those with abnormal glycemia may provide a more culturally acceptable and effective approach. Our objective was to explore the feasibility of such an intervention led by community health workers (CHWs) among low-income Hispanic/Latinos with diabetes and at risk for diabetes.

METHODS

Using a quasi-experimental mixed method design, we assessed weight, glycosylated hemoglobin, diabetes knowledge, and behavior changes of Hispanic/Latinos participants with pre-diabetes and diabetes living in Southern California. Biometric measurements, blood tests, and surveys were collected at baseline and 3 months post-intervention. Interviews and focus group discussions provided qualitative data.

RESULTS

Although the program was less costly, results exceeded those reported for low-income H/L attending the National Diabetes Prevention Program and did not differ between pre-diabetes and diabetes groups. Instead, including individuals at different stages of the dysglycemic spectrum seemed to have enhanced the intervention. Physician referral and attendance of family/friends were associated with better outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that a joint prevention/self-management intervention led by CHWs for low-income Hispanic/Latinos with diabetes and with pre-diabetes is feasible and cost-effective, providing results that could help reduce the success gap. Incorporating suggestions and replicating this study on a larger scale could help determine whether or not results are reproducible.

Effects of therapeutic education on self-efficacy, self-care activities and glycemic control of type 2 diabetic patients in a primary healthcare center in Lebanon

BACKGROUND

Diabetes type 2 is a chronic hyperglycemia, its control depends on the patient's Self-efficacy and self-care activities. Therapeutic Patient Education (TPE) enhances the patient involvement and engagement in managing chronic diseases effectively by improving the health outcomes. It helps the patients developing competencies of self-care, coping with diabetes and controlling glycaemia.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study are to assess the effects of TPE in type 2 Diabetic patients in Lebanon on their glycemic control, Diabetes Management Self-Efficacy Scale (DMSES) and their self-care activities (Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities SDSCA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 100 diabetic patients (50 experimental, 50 control) were recruited from a primary care center according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The experimental group followed the TPE by a multidisciplinary team. Glycemic control, DMSES and SDSCA were measured at baseline and after three months. The experimental group (EG) was followed up by phone calls every two weeks after the TPE.

RESULTS

The results revealed that the experimental group showed significant improvement at the level of self-efficacy in managing their disease concerning general nutrition, specific nutrition, control of glycaemia, physical activity, weight control and medical control (α<0.01); the total score of DMSES had significantly increased from 5.02 to 8.28 in the EG (α<0.01) compared to the control group (CG) that has decreased from 4.91 to 4.85 (α<0.05). Moreover, regarding the SDSCA of the EG, the results highlighted that the activities related to general diet, specific diet, physical exercise, foot care, the measurement of glycaemia and the medication-taking had significantly improved (α<0.05), whereas the CG didn't improve his self-care activities (α>0.05). In addition, the glycemic control HbA1c had improved in the EG after the intervention compared to the CG.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study demonstrated that Therapeutic Patient Education is efficient in contributing to better glycemic control, better DMSES and SDSCA. Health professionals are best suited to help diabetic patients improve their self-efficacy in managing diabetes, controlling glycemia and improving their self-care.

Remote Peer Learning Between US and Cambodian Lay Health Workers to Improve Outcomes for Cambodians with Type 2 Diabetes: a Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

This paper reports a single-group, pre-post pilot of a peer-learning intervention between community health workers (CHWs) in the USA and Village Health Support Guides (Guides) in Cambodia to improve outcomes for Cambodians with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHOD

Two US-based CHWs were trained in a culturally derived cardiometabolic education curriculum called Eat, Walk, Sleep (EWS) and they were also trained in principles of peer learning. They in turn trained five Cambodia-based Guides remotely through videoconference with a phablet in EWS. Finally, Cambodia-based Guides met with 58 patients with diabetes, face-to-face in their villages, monthly for 6 months to deliver EWS. US-based CHWs and Cambodia-based Guides responded to surveys at baseline and post-treatment. Patients responded to surveys and provided blood pressure and blood samples at baseline and post-treatment.

RESULTS

For US-based CHWs, scores on all surveys of diabetes knowledge, self-evaluation, job satisfaction, and information technology improved, though no statistical tests were run due to sample size. For Cambodia-based Guides, all scores on these same measures improved except for job satisfaction. For patients, n = 60 consented, 2 withdrew, and 7 were lost to follow-up leaving n = 51 for analysis. In paired t tests, patients showed significantly decreased A1c, decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressures, improved attitudes toward medicines, and a trend for switching from all-white to part-brown rice. No changes were detected in self-reported physical activity, medication adherence, sleep quality, or frequency or amount of rice consumed.

CONCLUSION

If proven effective in a controlled trial, cross-country peer learning could eventually help other diaspora communities.

Interdisciplinary speed dating augments diabetes self-management education and support to improve health outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To determine if a novel interdisciplinary "speed-dating" clinic augments Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES).

METHODS

Adult patients with diabetes attended a DSMES class. Two weeks later patients attended an interdisciplinary clinic utilizing a "speed-dating" format during which they progressed through 5 stations hosted by different healthcare disciplines at 30-minute increments: physician, pharmacist, nurse/dietitian, case manager, and psychologist. Shared decision-making was utilized to identify mutually agreeable recommendations. Change in clinical outcomes were compared for DSMES-only attenders versus Dual-attendees; utilization of emergency department and hospital services were measured 12 months before and after attending the Speed Dating clinic. This analysis represents patients attending the program during 2016.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine attended the DSMES class, 40 of whom followed-up in the "speed-dating" clinic (58% return rate). Attending the Speed Dating clinic improved A1C (p = 0.003) and LDL-C (p = 0.003) compared to the DSMES class alone. Comparatively, after attending the speed-dating clinic, patients had fewer emergency department (p = 0.366) and hospital admissions (p = 0.036), and shorter lengths of hospital stay (p = 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

The interdisciplinary "speed-dating" approach improved diabetes outcomes beyond DSMES alone and reduced utilization of hospital services.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Patients should attend DSMES but also participate in an Interdisciplinary Speed Dating follow-up to further improve outcomes.

Improved diabetes control among low-income Mexican Americans through community-clinical interventions: results of an RCT

INTRODUCTION

This randomized controlled trial investigated community-clinical intervention strategies for a Mexican American population who had not demonstrated control of their diabetes. We tested a control program (Salud y Vida 1.0) supporting diabetes management versus an enhanced version (Salud y Vida 2.0) for reductions in HbA1c at 12 months.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Adults with uncontrolled diabetes (n=353) were enrolled if they had an HbA1c≥9.0% during a program or doctor's visit between 6 and 36 months of their receipt of SyV 1.0 services, were patients at one of two clinics in local counties, and had an HbA1c≥8.0% at SyV 2.0 baseline enrollment. The control and intervention arms were coordinated by community health workers and the intervention arm included the control program enhanced with medication therapy management; behavioral health services; peer-led support groups; and additional community-based lifestyle programs also open to the family.

RESULTS

At 12 months, both study arms improved HbA1c (mean, (CI), Control (-0.47 (-0.74 to -0.20)) and intervention (-0.48 (-0.76 to -0.19)). The intervention group maintained HbA1c levels after month 6, whereas control group HbA1c levels slightly increased (adjusted mean from 9.83% at month 6%-9.90% at month 12). Also, HbA1c was examined by level of participant engagement. The high engagement group showed a decreasing trend over the study period, while control and lower engagement groups failed to maintain HbA1c levels at month 12.

CONCLUSIONS

Improved HbA1c was found among a population that had not demonstrated diabetes management prior; however, mean HbA1c values were above clinical guideline recommendations. The randomized control trial findings provide additional evidence that extended time and intervention supports may be needed for populations experiencing inequities in social determinants of health.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04035395.

Predicting Healthy Lifestyle Behaviours Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in Rural Bali, Indonesia

Background

Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong metabolic disease closely related to unhealthy lifestyle behaviours. This study aimed to identify factors explaining the healthy lifestyle behaviours of patients with type 2 diabetes in rural Indonesia. The extended health belief model, demographic characteristics, clinical lifestyle factors and diabetes knowledge were investigated to provide a complete description of these behaviours.

Method

A sample of 203 patients with type 2 diabetes representing a cross-section of the population were recruited from community health centres in the rural areas of Bali province. The data were collected through questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and a hierarchical regression test were employed.

Results

This study showed demographic characteristics, clinical and lifestyle factors, diabetes knowledge and the extended health belief model accounted for 71.8% of the variance in healthy lifestyle behaviours of patients with type 2 diabetes in rural Indonesia. The significant demographic factors were age, education level, employment status and traditional beliefs. The significant clinical and lifestyle factors were alcohol use, diabetic medicine and duration of symptoms. Finally, the significant extended health belief model factors were perceived severity, susceptibility, barriers, family support, bonding social capital and chance locus of control.

Conclusions

The extended health belief model forms an adequate model for predicting healthy lifestyle behaviours among patients with diabetes in rural Indonesia. The contribution of this model should be strengthened in developing the diabetes management.

Dietary Attitude of Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:A Cross-sectional study

Background and Objectives: There is a paucity of literature on the dietary attitude (DA) of patients with type 2 diabetes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Although the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is high in Gulf countries, there remains a lack of understanding of the importance of dietary behavior in diabetes management among patients. Understanding the behavior of patients with diabetes towards the disease requires knowledge of their DA. Therefore, this study aimed to assess and evaluate the DA of type 2 diabetes patients, and it is the first of its kind in the KSA. Material and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 patients with type 2 diabetes. A self-administered DA questionnaire was used to collect the data. Psychometric properties of the questionnaire were assessed by face validity, content validity, exploratory factor analysis, and internal consistency reliability. The data were collected using a systematic random sampling technique. Results: The overall DA of the patients was inappropriate (p = 0.014). Patients had an inappropriate DA towards food selection (p = 0.003), healthy choices(p = 0.005), food restraint (p < 0.001), health impact (p < 0.001), and food categorization (p = 0.033). A poor DA was also observed in relation to the consumption of red meat(p < 0.001), rice (p < 0.001), soup and sauces (p = 0.040), dairy products (p = 0.015), and junk food(p < 0.001). Conclusions: It is highly recommended that patients with diabetes receive counseling with an empowerment approach, as this can bring about changes in their dietary behavior, which is deeply rooted in their daily routine. Healthcare providers should also be well-informed about patients' attitudes and beliefs towards diabetes to design tailored educational and salutary programs for this specific community. Diabetes self-management educational programs should also be provided on a regular basis with a special emphasis on diet and its related components.

Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support: Referral and Attendance at a Patient-Centered Medical Home

BACKGROUND

Although evidence shows that diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) is an effective tool to help individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) improve their health outcomes, there remains a large number of individuals not attending DSMES. Understanding how frequently patients receive referrals to DSMES and the number of DSMES hours they receive is important to determine, as well as patients' health outcomes of utilizing DSMES. This will help us understand patterns of utilization and the outcomes that occur when such a valuable resource is utilized.

METHODS

Secondary data analysis was conducted of patient electronic medical records at a primary healthcare federally qualified clinic and 2 area hospitals. We identified 105 adult patients with a new T2DM diagnosis with at least 2 A1c lab results 3 to 12 months apart during the study period.

RESULTS

Only 53.5% were referred to DSMES. Out of those who were referred, 66% received no DSMES, 17% received 1-hour assessment, 4% received partial DSMES, and 13% received 8 or more hours. Linear regression of percent change in A1c and number of DSMES hours received, revealed that receiving 1 (P = .001) or 8 or more hours of DSMES (P = .022) had a significant negative relationship with the percent difference in A1c compared to the group who received no DSMES. Patients who had an hour of assessment had a similar percent reduction in A1c to those who had partial DSMES.

CONCLUSION

Referral rates and enrollment in DSMES remain low. Those who enrolled often dropped out after the one-hour assessment session. Results suggest making the one-hour assessment session more educationally comprehensive or longer to retain patients. Improving the DSMES referral process and further investing physicians' decisions on whether to refer or not refer patients to DSMES are key for future studies.

Effectiveness of Diabetes Self-Management Education in Community Health

Background

Diabetes self-management education (DSME) programs utilize a multidisciplinary, skills-based approach allowing participants to make self-management choices and follow a comprehensive plan of care, improving their glycemic control.

Objective

The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the effectiveness of DSME on the reduction of hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1c) and body mass index (BMI) in overweight/obese community health center patients.

Methods

The free program met 2 hours weekly for 6 consecutive weeks. A retrospective chart review was conducted to compare baseline to post-session HgbA1c and BMI 12 weeks after completion of the program. Pre- and post-session surveys were also conducted to assess improved diabetes knowledge and confidence.

Results

Mean HgbA1c decreased by 1.6% (p = .003) 12 weeks after completion of the program; however, BMI remained unchanged (p = .582). Diabetes knowledge and confidence also improved significantly following DSME (p = .000 and p = .001, respectively).

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that a reduction in HgbA1c levels and an increase in diabetes knowledge and confidence can occur in low income, community health center patients following participation in DSME.

Implications for Nursing

Community health center patients who have access to free DSME can improve their health, self-efficacy, and diabetes self-management practices.

Effect of simulation education and case management on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to investigate whether simulation education (SE) and case management had any effect on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients.

METHODS

In this single center pilot trial, 100 T2DM patients who received medication and basic diabetes self-management education (DSME) were randomly divided into a control group (n = 50) and an experimental group (n = 50), who received SE and a case management program. Evaluation of biochemical indices was conducted at baseline and after 6 months. DSME consisted of 2-hour group trainings weekly for 2 consecutive weeks followed by 2 × 30 minute education sessions after 3 and 6 months. The SE program comprised additional 50-minute video sessions 3 times in the first week and twice in the second week. The experimental group was supervised by a nurse case manager, who followed up participants at least once a month, and who conducted group sessions once every 3 months, focusing on realistic aspects of physical activity and nutrition, with open discussions about setting goals and strategies to overcome barriers.

RESULTS

After 6 months, HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, and postprandial blood glucose level improvements were superior in the experimental group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Self-care behavior adherence scores of healthy diet (P = 0.001), physical activity (P = 0.043), self-monitoring of blood glucose (P < 0.001), and reducing risks (P < 0.001) were significantly increased in the experimental group compared with the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Simulation education and case management added to routine DSME effectively improved glycemic control in T2DM patients.

How people living with diabetes in Indonesia learn about their disease: A grounded theory study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes education has been found to impact positively on self-management by people with diabetes although little is known about the process by which they assimilate information. The aim of this study was to generate a theory explaining the process by which people with diabetes learn about their disease in Indonesia.

METHODS

This study employed a grounded theory methodology influenced by constructivism and symbolic interactionism. A total of twenty-eight face-to-face or telephone interviews with participants from Indonesia that included people with diabetes, healthcare professionals, health service providers and families of people with diabetes were conducted in both Indonesia and Australia.

RESULTS

This study discloses a core category of Learning, choosing, and acting: self-management of diabetes in Indonesia as the basic social process of how people learn about their diabetes. The process includes five distinctive major categories. People with diabetes acted after they had received recommendations that they considered to be trustworthy. Factors that influenced their choice of recommendations to adopt are also identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Awareness of the complexity involved in their decision making will assist healthcare professionals to engage effectively with people living with diabetes.

Interventions for self-management of type 2 diabetes: An integrative review

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus has been identified as one of the most challenging chronic illnesses to manage. Since the management of diabetes is mainly accomplished by patients and families, self-management has become the mainstay of diabetes care. However, a significant proportion of patients fail to engage in adequate self-management. A priority research question is how do interventions affect the self-management behaviors of persons with Type 2 diabetes?

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this integrative review is to provide a summary and critique of interventions that support diabetes self-management in the patient with Type II diabetes mellitus.

DESIGN

An integrative review design, with a comprehensive methodological approach of reviews, allowing inclusion of experimental and non-experimental studies.

PROCEDURES

A comprehensive search was conducted via Ebscohost using databases of Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, MEDLINE, PsycArtiCLES, and PsycInfo. The final number of papers used for this review were: motivational interviewing (6), peer support/coaching (10), problem solving therapy (3), technology-based interventions (30), lifestyle modification programs (7), patient education (11), mindfulness (3), and cognitive behavioral therapy (5).

RESULTS

Studies were examined from seventeen countries including a broad range of cultures and ethnicities. While interventions have shown mixed results in all interventional categories, many studies do support small to modest improvements in physiologic, behavioral, and psychological outcome measures. Considerable heterogeneity of interventions exists. The most commonly reported physiologic measure was HbA1c level. Outcome measures were collected mostly at 6 and 12 months. Duration of most research was limited to one year.

CONCLUSIONS

Research exploring the impact of interventions for self-management has made major contributions to the care of persons with type 2 diabetes, from offering suggestions for improving care, to stimulating new questions for research. However, implications for clinical practice remain inconclusive, and limitations in existing research suggest caution in interpreting results of studies.

Identification of barriers to insulin therapy and approaches to overcoming them

Poor glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a global problem despite the availability of numerous glucose-lowering therapies and clear guidelines for T2D management. Tackling clinical or therapeutic inertia, where the person with diabetes and/or their healthcare providers do not intensify treatment regimens despite this being appropriate, is key to improving patients' long-term outcomes. This gap between best practice and current level of care is most pronounced when considering insulin regimens, with studies showing that insulin initiation/intensification is frequently and inappropriately delayed for several years. Patient- and physician-related factors both contribute to this resistance at the stages of insulin initiation, titration and intensification, impeding achievement of optimal glycaemic control. The present review evaluates the evidence and reasons for this delay, together with available methods for facilitation of insulin initiation or intensification.

Estimated Cost Savings: Everyone With Diabetes Counts (EDC) Program

Everyone with Diabetes Counts (EDC) is a national disparities reduction program funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to improve outcomes in the underserved minority, diverse, and rural populations. This analysis evaluates West Virginia's pilot program of diabetes self-management education (DSME), one component of EDC. We frequency-matched 422 DSME completers to 1688 others by demographics and enrollment from Medicare fee-for service claims. We estimated savings associated with reduced hospitalizations in multivariable negative binomial models. DSME completers had 29% fewer hospitalizations (adjusted P < .0069). We estimated savings of $35 900 per 100 DSME completers in West Virginia.

Impact of a structured patient support program on adherence and persistence in basal insulin therapy for type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Treatment adherence and persistence are essential to achieving therapeutic goals in diabetes and may be improved by patient support programs (PSPs). The COACH Program was launched in 2015 with the goal of supporting patients with diabetes who are prescribed insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300). The study objective was to assess the program's impact on persistence and adherence with therapy among patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective 12-month analysis was conducted to compare treatment adherence and persistence in patients treated with Gla-300 who actively participated in the COACH PSP versus those who did not enroll using COACH engagement and claims data for the identification period from February 1, 2016 to July 31, 2016. COACH (n=544) and non-COACH (n=544) participants were matched on selected baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

COACH participants were more likely to be adherent to (68.0% vs 61.4%, p= 0.0201; OR: 1.81, p=0.0002) and persistent (48.5% vs 42.1%, p= 0.0309; discontinuation HR: 0.60, p<0.0001) with Gla-300 than non-COACH patients during the 12-month follow-up after controlling for clinical confounders. Additionally, both insulin-naive and basal insulin switcher COACH participants, respectively, were more likely to be adherent (OR: 2.25, p=0.0082 and OR: 1.662, p=0.0364) and persistent (discontinuation HR: 0.53, p=0.0054 and HR: 0.67, p=0.0492) than non-COACH patients. Finally, COACH participants with greater level of engagement showed better persistence.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that participation and engagement with COACH PSPs are associated with improved persistence and adherence to Gla-300 among patients with type 2 diabetes.

Contribution of family social support to the metabolic control of people with diabetes mellitus: A randomized controlled clinical trial

AIM

This randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the contribution of family social support to the clinical/metabolic control of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that requires continuous care in order for individuals to reach glycemic control, the primordial goal of treatment. Family social support is essential to the development of care skills and their maintenance. However, there are few studies that investigate the contribution of family social support to diabetes control.

METHODS

The study was developed between June 2011 and May 2013, and included 164 people who were randomized using simple randomization. The intervention group differed from the control group in that it included a family caregiver, who was recognized by the patient as a source of social support. The educational interventions received by people with diabetes mellitus were used as the basis of the education provided through telephone calls to patients' family members and caregivers, and their purpose was to encourage dialogue between the patients and their relatives about the topics related to diabetes.

RESULTS

Regarding the clinical impact, the results showed that there was a greater reduction in blood pressure and glycated hemoglobin in the intervention group than in the control group, showing a positive effect on the control of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Families should be incorporated into the care of people with diabetes mellitus and especially in health care programs, in particular those that can promote different forms of social support to strengthen the bond between family members.

Primary care for diabetes mellitus patients from the perspective of the care model for chronic conditions

Objective

to assess the health care Primary Health Care professionals provide to diabetes mellitus patients from the perspective of the Modelo de Atenção às Condições Crônicas.

Method

qualitative study, using the theoretical framework of Complex Thinking and the Modelo de Atenção às Condições Crônicas and the methodological framework of assessment research. To collect the data, 38 interviews were held with health professionals and managers; observation of the activities by the health teams; and analysis of 25 files of people who received this care. The data analysis was supported by the software ATLAS.ti, using the directed content analysis technique.

Results

at the micro level, care was distant from the integrality of the actions needed to assist people with chronic conditions and was centered on the biomedical model. At the meso level, there was disarticulation among the professionals of the Family Health Strategy, between them and the users, family and community. At the macro level, there was a lack of guiding strategies to implement public policies for diabetes in care practice.

Conclusion

the implementation of the Modelo de Atenção às Condições Crônicas represents a great challenge, mainly needing professionals and managers who are prepared to work with chronic conditions are who are open to break with the traditional model.

Improving diet, activity and wellness in adults at risk of diabetes: randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this analysis is to examine the effect of an algorithm-driven online diabetes prevention program on changes in eating habits, physical activity and wellness/productivity factors.

METHODS

The intervention, Alive-PD, used small-step individually tailored goal setting and other features to promote changes in diet and physical activity. A 6-month randomized controlled trial was conducted among patients from a healthcare delivery system who had confirmed prediabetes (n =339). Change in weight and glycemic markers were measured in the clinic. Changes in physical activity, diet and wellness/productivity factors were self-reported. Mean age was 55 (s.d. 8.9) years, mean body mass index was 31 (s.d. 4.4) kg m(-2), 68% were white and 69% were male.

RESULTS

The intervention group increased fruit/vegetable consumption by 3.71 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.73, 4.70) times per week (effect size 0.62), and decreased refined carbohydrates by 3.77 (95% CI 3.10, 4.44) times per week both significantly (P<0.001) greater changes than in the control group. The intervention group also reported a significantly greater increase in physical activity than in the control group, effect size 0.49, P<0.001. In addition, the intervention group reported a significant increase in self-rated health, in confidence in ability to make dietary changes and in ability to accomplish tasks, and a decrease in fatigue, compared with the control group. These changes paralleled the significant treatment effects on glycemic markers and weight.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to promoting improvements in weight and glycemic markers, the Alive-PD program appears to improve eating habits and physical activity, behaviors important not just for diabetes prevention but for those with diagnosed diabetes or obesity. The improvements in wellness/productivity may derive from the diet and activity improvements, and from the satisfaction and self-efficacy of achieving goals.

Systematic medical assessment, referral and treatment for diabetes care in China using lay family health promoters: protocol for the SMARTDiabetes cluster randomised controlled trial

Background

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) affects 113.9 million people in China, the largest number of any country in the world (JAMA 310:948–59, 2013). T2DM prevalence has risen dramatically from around 1 % in the 1980s to now over 10 % and is expected to continue rising. Despite the growing disease burden, few people with T2DM are achieving adequate management targets to prevent complications. Health system infrastructure in China is struggling to meet these gaps in care, and innovative, cost-effective and affordable solutions are needed. One promising strategy that may be particularly relevant to the Chinese context is improving support for lay family members to care for their relatives with T2DM.

Methods

We hypothesise that an interactive mobile health management system can support lay family health promoters (FHP) and healthcare staff to improve clinical outcomes for family members with T2DM through medical assessment, regular monitoring, lifestyle advice and the prescribing of guidelines recommended medications. This intervention will be implemented as a cluster randomised controlled trial involving 80 communities (40 communities in Beijing and 40 rural villages in Hebei province) and 2000 people with T2DM. Outcome analyses will be conducted blinded to intervention allocation.

The primary outcome is the proportion of patients achieving ≥2 “ABC” goals (HbA1c <7.0 %, blood pressure (BP) <140/80 mmHg and LDL cholesterol <100 mg/dl or 2.6 mmol/L) at the end of follow-up (Diabetes Care 36(Supplement 1):S11-S66, 2013). Secondary outcomes include the proportion of patients achieving individual ABC targets; mean changes in HbA1c, BP, LDL, renal function (serum creatinine and urinary albumin), body mass index, quality of life (QOL, EQ-5D), and healthcare utilisation from baseline; and cost-effectiveness/utility of intervention. Trial outcomes will be accompanied by detailed process and economic evaluations.

Discussion

The Chinese government has prioritised prevention and treatment of diabetes as 1 of 11 National Basic Public Health Services. Despite great promise for mHealth interventions to improve access to effective health care, there remains uncertainty about how this can be successfully achieved. The findings are likely to inform policy on a scalable strategy to overcome sub-optimal access to effective health care in China.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02726100

The effect of diabetes self-management education on body weight, glycemic control, and other metabolic markers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

To comprehensively evaluate the effect of a short-term diabetes self-management education (DSME) on metabolic markers and atherosclerotic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

76 patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited in this study. They were divided into the intervention group (n = 36) and control group (n = 40). The patients in the intervention group received a 3-month intervention, including an 8-week education on self-management of diabetes mellitus and subsequent 4 weeks of practice of the self-management guidelines. The patients in the control group received standard advice on medical nutrition therapy. Metabolic markers, carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), and carotid arterial stiffness (CAS) of the patients in both groups were assessed before and after the 3-month intervention.

RESULTS

There was a significant reduction in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c, -0.2 ± 0.56% versus 0.08 ± 0.741%; P < 0.05) and body weight (-1.19 ± 1.39 kg versus -0.61 ± 2.04 kg; P < 0.05) in the intervention group as compared to the control group. However, no significant improvements were found in other metabolic markers, CIMT and CAS (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

DSME can improve HbA1c and body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes.