Hajos TRS, Polonsky WH, Twisk JWR, Dain MP, Snoek FJ. Do physicians understand Type 2 diabetes patients' perceptions of seriousness; the emotional impact and needs for care improvement? A cross-national survey.
PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2011;
85:258-263. [PMID:
20932702 DOI:
10.1016/j.pec.2010.08.019]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2010] [Revised: 07/19/2010] [Accepted: 08/29/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To explore across countries the extent to which physicians understand Type 2 diabetes patients' perceptions of seriousness, worries about complications, emotional distress, and needs for care improvement.
METHODS
Cross-sectional data were collected in a multinational survey (SHARED). Type 2 diabetes patients (n=1609), general practitioners (n=818) and diabetes specialists (n=697) from eight countries were included. Data were gathered online and via telephone interviews. Responses from patients and professionals were compared using descriptive statistics and multilevel analyses.
RESULTS
Patients generally perceived diabetes as a serious condition and reported moderate distress. Physicians tended to underestimate patients' perceived seriousness, while overestimating their level of distress. Physicians had difficulty estimating which diabetes complications concerned patients most, and what they needed to feel more confident about their diabetes. Patients did not wish for more consultation time, but rather active involvement, information and easy access to their physician.
CONCLUSION
Results of this large survey highlight the importance of patient involvement and shared decision making.
PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS
Further improvement of patient-provider communication as a basis for shared responsibilities and achieving optimal treatment outcomes is needed. With the growing numbers of diabetes patients worldwide, task delegation should be considered, in the framework of a multidisciplinary diabetes care model.
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