Roles, responsibilities and characteristics of lay community health workers involved in diabetes prevention programmes: A systematic review

Community health worker perspectives: examining current responsibilities and strategies for success

BACKGROUND

Community health worker (CHW) interventions have demonstrated positive impacts globally, with the COVID-19 pandemic further highlighting the potential of CHWs at the frontline to support prevention, outreach, and healthcare delivery. As the workforce expands, understanding the work and capabilities of CHWs is key to design successful interventions. This study examines the perspectives of experienced CHWs in Chicago about their current work and strategies for success.

METHODS

As part of a community-academic partnership in Chicago, semi-structured interviews were completed with individuals who held positions aligned with CHW. Interviews were conducted between January and April 2022. Questions focused on participants' work and factors contributing to their effectiveness to gain insights into workforce strategies for success to be applied in healthcare and community settings. De-identified transcripts were analyzed using inductive reasoning with codes organized into themes and subthemes under two domains identified a priori. The themes informed a logic model focused on the early stages to support the success of CHWs in their role.

RESULTS

Fourteen individuals participated in the study. The two predetermined domains in this study were: current work of CHWs and strategies for CHWs to be successful. Five themes were identified about CHWs' current work: providing services, building alliances with clients, establishing and maintaining collaborations, collecting data, and experiencing challenges in role. From their perspectives, all these responsibilities enhance client care and support workforce sustainability efforts. Five themes emerged about strategies for the success of CHWs: background of CHWs, champions to support work of CHWs, materials to perform work of CHWs, preparation for CHW role, and characteristics of CHWs. Participants described key traits CHWs should possess to be hired, individuals who can champion and advocate for their work, and specific materials needed to fulfill responsibilities. They reported that training and familiarity with the community were integral to developing and refining the qualities and skills necessary to be effective in their role.

CONCLUSION

CHWs play an increasingly important role in enhancing healthcare delivery and improving health outcomes. This study offers a framework for policymakers, communities, and organizations to utilize for preparing CHWs to succeed in their roles.

Feasibility of prevention of type 2 diabetes in low- and middle-income countries

Type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of global mortality and morbidity. Nearly 80% of individuals with diabetes live in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where nearly half of those with the condition remain undiagnosed. The majority of known cases have sub-optimal clinical outcomes. Moreover, large populations with impaired glucose tolerance and/or impaired fasting glucose contribute to the rapid increase in type 2 diabetes. Globally, priority should be given to limit the population with diabetes, especially in LMICs, alongside actions to optimise the care of people diagnosed with diabetes. Primary prevention studies in LMICs have generated evidence to show the efficacy and scalability of strategies to fully prevent or delay the development of diabetes in high-risk groups. However, these are mainly limited to certain countries in Asia, particularly China and India. The studies have indicated that prevention policies are effective in populations with a high risk of type 2 diabetes, and they also have long-term benefits, not only for the risk of type 2 diabetes but also for the risk of associated metabolic disorders, such as CVDs. For the effective conduct of national programmes, innovative mechanisms must be implemented, such as the use of information technology, joint efforts of multiple teams implementing similar programmes, and involvement of governmental and non-governmental partnerships. Continuous monitoring and long-term studies are required to assess the utility of these programmes. The effectiveness of such programmes in LMICs has not been proven over the longer term, except in China. Despite the available evidence, the feasibility of prevention strategies for type 2 diabetes in LMICs at population level remains an enigma. There remain challenges in the form of cultural, societal and economic constraints; insufficient infrastructure and healthcare capacity; and the non-fully elucidated natural history and determinants of type 2 diabetes in LMICs.

Program Factors Affecting Weight Loss and Mobility in Older Adults: Evidence From the Mobility and Vitality Lifestyle Program (MOVE UP)

Background. The Mobility and Vitality Lifestyle Program (MOVE UP) is a behavioral weight-management intervention for improving mobility among community-dwelling older adults. We examined program factors that affect implementation outcomes and participant-level health outcomes. Methods. The MOVE UP program was implemented in the greater Pittsburgh area from January 2015 to June 2019 to improve lower extremity performance in community-dwelling older adults who were overweight or obese. Thirty-two sessions were delivered over 13 months. All sessions were designed to be 1-hour in length, on-site, group-based, and led by trained and supported community health workers (CHWs). Participants completed weekly Lifestyle Logs for self-monitoring of body weight, diet, and physical activity. We evaluated the MOVE UP program using the RE-AIM framework, and collected quantitative data at baseline, 5-, 9-, and 13-months. Multilevel linear regression models assessed the impacts of program factors (site, CHW, and participant characteristics) on implementation outcomes and participant-level health outcomes. Results. Twenty-two CHWs delivered MOVE UP program to 303 participants in 26 cohorts. Participants were similar to the target source population in weight but differed in some demographic characteristics. The program was effective for weight loss and lower extremity function in both intervention and maintenance periods (ps < .01), with an independent effect for Lifestyle Logs submission but not session attendance. Discussion. CHWs were able to deliver a multi-component weight loss intervention effectively in community settings. CHW and site characteristics had independent impacts on participants' adherence. Lifestyle Log submission may be a more potent measure of adherence in weight loss interventions than attendance.

Integrating Community Health Workers' Dual Clinic-Community Role in Safety-Net Primary Care: Implementation Lessons from a Pragmatic Diabetes-Prevention Trial

BACKGROUND

Over a third of US adults carry a diagnosis of prediabetes, 70% of whom may progress to type 2 diabetes mellitus ("diabetes"). Community health workers (CHWs) can help patients undertake healthy behavior to prevent diabetes. However, there is limited guidance to integrate CHWs in primary care, specifically to address CHWs' dual clinic-based and community-oriented role.

OBJECTIVE

Using evidence from CHWs' adaptations of a diabetes-prevention intervention in safety-net hospitals in New York City, we examine the nature, intent, and possible consequences of CHWs' actions on program fidelity. We propose strategies for integrating CHWs in primary care.

DESIGN

Case study drawing on the Model for Adaptation Design and Impact (MADI) to analyze CHWs' actions during implementation of CHORD (Community Health Outreach to Reduce Diabetes), a cluster-randomized pragmatic trial (2017-2022) at Manhattan VA and Bellevue Hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

CHWs and clinicians in the CHORD study, with a focus in this analysis on CHWs.

APPROACH

Semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion with CHWs (n=4); semi-structured interviews with clinicians (n=17). Interpretivist approach to explain CHWs' adaptations using a mix of inductive and deductive analysis.

KEY RESULTS

CHWs' adaptations extended the intervention in three ways: by extending social assistance, healthcare access, and operational tasks. The adaptations were intended to improve fit, reach, and retention, but likely had ripple effects on implementation outcomes. CHWs' focus on patients' complex social needs could divert them from judiciously managing their caseload.

CONCLUSIONS

CHWs' community knowledge can support patient engagement, but overextension of social assistance may detract from protocolized health-coaching goals. CHW programs in primary care should explicitly delineate CHWs' non-health support to patients, include multiprofessional teams or partnerships with community-based organizations, establish formal communication between CHWs and clinicians, and institute mechanisms to review and iterate CHWs' work to resolve challenges in their community-oriented role.

Improving health equity through health care systems research

OBJECTIVE

To describe health equity research priorities for health care delivery systems and delineate a research and action agenda that generates evidence-based solutions to persistent racial and ethnic inequities in health outcomes.

DATA SOURCES AND STUDY SETTING

This project was conducted as a component of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's (AHRQ) stakeholder engaged process to develop an Equity Agenda and Action Plan to guide priority setting to advance health equity. Recommendations were developed and refined based on expert input, evidence review, and stakeholder engagement. Participating stakeholders included experts from academia, health care organizations, industry, and government.

STUDY DESIGN

Expert group consensus, informed by stakeholder engagement and targeted evidence review.

DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS

Priority themes were derived iteratively through (1) brainstorming and idea reduction, (2) targeted evidence review of candidate themes, (3) determination of preliminary themes; (4) input on preliminary themes from stakeholders attending AHRQ's 2022 Health Equity Summit; and (5) and refinement of themes based on that input. The final set of research and action recommendations was determined by authors' consensus.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Health care delivery systems have contributed to racial and ethnic disparities in health care. High quality research is needed to inform health care delivery systems approaches to undo systemic barriers and inequities. We identified six priority themes for research; (1) institutional leadership, culture, and workforce; (2) data-driven, culturally tailored care; (3) health equity targeted performance incentives; (4) health equity-informed approaches to health system consolidation and access; (5) whole person care; (6) and whole community investment. We also suggest cross-cutting themes regarding research workforce and research timelines.

CONCLUSIONS

As the nation's primary health services research agency, AHRQ can advance equitable delivery of health care by funding research and disseminating evidence to help transform the organization and delivery of health care.

Diabetes care components effectively implemented in the ASEAN health systems: an umbrella review of systematic reviews

OBJECTIVES

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is among the hardest hit low-income and middle-income countries by diabetes. Innovative Care for Chronic Conditions (ICCC) framework has been adopted by the WHO for health system transformation towards better care for chronic conditions including diabetes. We conducted an umbrella review of systematic reviews on diabetes care components effectively implemented in the ASEAN health systems and map those effective care components into the ICCC framework.

DESIGN

An umbrella review of systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses following JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute) guidelines.

DATA SOURCES

Health System Evidence, Health Evidence, PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

We included systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses which focused on management of type 2 diabetes, reported improvements in measured outcomes and had at least one ASEAN member state in the study setting.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two reviewers independently extracted the data and mapped the included studies into the ICCC framework. A narrative synthesis method was used to summarise the findings. The included studies were assessed for methodological quality based on the JBI critical appraisal checklist for systematic reviews and research syntheses.

RESULTS

479 records were found of which 36 studies were included for the analysis. A multidisciplinary healthcare team including pharmacists and nurses has been reported to effectively support patients in self-management of their conditions. This can be supported by effective use of digital health interventions. Community health workers either peers or lay people with necessary software (knowledge and skills) and hardware (medical equipment and supplies) can provide complementary care to that of the healthcare staff.

CONCLUSION

To meet challenges of the increased burden of chronic conditions including diabetes, health policy-makers in the ASEAN member states can consider a paradigm shift in human resources for health towards the multidisciplinary, inclusive, collaborative and complementary team.

Addressing Training Gaps: A Competency-Based, Telehealth Training Initiative for Community Health Workers

Background

To overcome vast variations in Community Health Worker (CHW) training, investigators for the CHW Core Consensus Project (CCCP) derived three types of CHW (Category 1, 2, 3) and established competencies for each category. However, studies are needed that implement these competencies in real-world settings.

Objective

Using the six competency domains of the CCCP as a theoretical backbone, we developed and evaluated a training for Category 1 CHWs, individuals whose focus is on community outreach and advocacy.

Methods

We developed five telehealth-based, bilingual (Spanish/English) training sessions and implemented them among Category 1 Latino(a) CHWs. We measured the number of CHWs who achieved ≥70% correct on a domain-based posttest, attendance, and qualitative feedback.

Results

All (18/18) CHWs achieved at least 70% on the posttest (mean: 93.7%; range 73.3-100%). Training attendance was 98.9%. Using a six-point scale, CHWs reported high levels of satisfaction overall (5.72 ± 0.57/6.0), with telehealth (5.72 ± 0.58/6.0), effectiveness of teaching strategies/methods (5.89 ± 0.32/6.0), achieving training objectives (5.96 ± 0.15/6.0), knowledge improvement (5.72 ± 0.57/6.0), and interest (5.78 ± 0.43/6.0).

Conclusion

We successfully developed and evaluated a bilingual training program for Category 1 CHWs to address core competency gaps. High CHW attendance reinforces the value of telehealth modalities and their potential to increase the reach for CHW training. To overcome gaps in chronic disease training, investigations are needed to address additional CHW trainings.

Trial Registration

NCT04835493.

Adapting and Developing A Diabetes Prevention Intervention Programme for South Africa: Curriculum and Tools

The South African Diabetes Prevention Programme (SA-DPP) is a lifestyle intervention targeting individuals at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this paper we describe the mixed-method staged approach that was used to develop and refine the SA-DPP intervention curriculum and the appropriate tools for local resource-poor communities. During the preparation phase, existing evidence on similar DPP interventions was reviewed, focus group discussions with individuals from the target population were conducted as part of a needs assessment, and experts were consulted. The curriculum booklet, a participant workbook and facilitator workbook were developed, and the content was evaluated by experts in the field. The design and layout of the booklet and workbooks needed to be culturally and contextually appropriate. The printed material was evaluated for readability and acceptability by participants of the target population; based on their feedback, the design and layout were refined and the printed material was translated. The suitability of the intervention was tested in a pilot study; based on feedback from the participants and facilitator, the curriculum was revised where needed and finalised. Through this process a context specific intervention and printed materials were developed. A complete evaluation of this culturally relevant model for T2DM prevention in South Africa is pending.

Effect of a Nurse-Led Intervention on Knowledge of the Modifiable Risk Behaviors of Cardiovascular Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has disproportionately burdened the low- and middle-income countries where awareness and detection rates remain very low. Interventions directed to promote the community's awareness of CVD may help reduce the public's exposure to behavioral risk factors. However, the effectiveness of interventions implemented through a nurse on knowledge of the modifiable behavioral risk factors and preventive measures of CVD has not been determined in Kenya.

Objective

To establish the effect of a nurse-led intervention on knowledge of the modifiable risk behaviors of CVD in adults with metabolic syndrome (MetS) attending a mission-based hospital in Kenya.

Methods

A two-armed parallel-group randomized controlled trial design was conducted among 352 adults aged 18-64 years with MetS. The participants were recruited from a faith-based hospital in Nairobi, Kenya and randomly allocated to either a nurse-led lifestyle intervention or a control group. The intervention group received a comprehensive health education intervention using the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline recommendations for CVD control and prevention. Individuals in the control group were exposed to the usual CVD care according to hospital protocol. The duration of the intervention was 12 months. The primary outcome measure was a change in levels of knowledge on the modifiable risk factors and preventive measures of CVD. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and at 15 months postintervention. Pre- and postintervention difference in the level of knowledge between the two groups was determined using the chi-square test of independence.

Results

The knowledge level of CVD risk factors and preventive measures was very low in both groups at baseline without significant difference. A significant improvement in the level of knowledge on CVD risk factors (78.2% vs. 30.4%, p < .001) and preventive measures (74.4% vs. 29.0%, p < .001) was observed in the intervention group relative to the control at the end-line.

Conclusions

The nurse-led lifestyle intervention significantly improved participants' level of knowledge on CVD risk factors and preventive measures. It is highly recommended that nurses incorporate routine health education interventions for patients with cardio-metabolic abnormalities.

Lay Health Workers in Community-Based Care and Management of Dementia: A Qualitative ‘Pre’ and ‘Post’ Intervention Study in Southwestern Uganda

Background

The global need for efficient and cost-effective use of healthcare resources in low-income countries has led to the introduction of lay health workers (LHWs) as a link of the community to healthcare services. As such, the LHWs perform a variety of tasks such as education, support for care delivery, and social support across all disease types. However, little is known about their ability to support dementia care and management in the community.

Purpose

The goal of the pilot intervention was to evaluate the 5-day training intervention for LHWs in rural southwestern Uganda in community-based care and management of people with dementia, and implementation of the knowledge and skills gained.

Methods

This was a “pre” and “post” pilot intervention study which involved a qualitative assessment of LHWs' knowledge on community-based management and care for people with dementia. We focused on four core competency domains in the WHO dementia toolkit. The intervention included a five-day training of the LHWs on dementia care, eight weeks of implementation, and an evaluation of the experiences. Analysis focused on the needs assessment, early detection and management, community engagement, support for people with dementia; and evaluation of the eight weeks implementation.

Results

Before the training, the LHWs did not know much about what dementia-related support to provide in the community. Activities were limited to general support, including nutrition, and health education. After the training, LHWs had a basic understanding of dementia and began sensitizing the communities. They felt more comfortable working with people with dementia and reported a notable change in the attitude of family members. However, they reported challenges in differentiating the signs of early dementia from superstitious beliefs.

Conclusion

With enhanced capacity, LHWs may be able to support community-based management for people with dementia. A larger study is needed to explore potential roles for LHWs and further assess effectiveness of the LHWs' skills.

Characteristics and Outcomes of Community Health Worker Training to Improve the Prevention and Control of Cardiometabolic Diseases in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review

Community health workers (CHWs) play an important role in controlling non-communicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries. The aim of this review was to describe the characteristics and outcomes of CHW training programs that focused on the prevention and control of cardiometabolic diseases in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Medline, CINAHL Complete, Academic Search Complete, Directory of Open Access Journal, ScienceDirect, ERIC, Gale Academic, and OneFile). Studies that described the training programs used to train CHWs for prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases and type2 diabetes mellitus in LMICs. Only studies that evaluated the outcomes of training programs in at least one of the 4 levels of Kirkpatrick’s training evaluation model were included in the review. CHWs who underwent training focused on the prevention and control of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. We summarized the resulting evidence using qualitative synthesis through a narrative review. Training outcomes were assessed in relation to (1) CHW reactions to training, their degree of learning, and their behaviors following training, and (2) changes in biochemical and anthropometric indicators in target populations following the CHW program implementation. PROSPERO (CRD42020162116). Thirty-two studies were included. Methods used to train CHWs included: face-to-face lectures, interactive group activities, and blended teaching with online support. Training focused on identifying people with elevated risk of cardiometabolic diseases and their risk factors as well as supporting people to adopt healthy lifestyles. Many studies that utilized trained CHWs did not publish CHW training methods and evaluations, and therefore could not be included in this study. Training programs resulted in an increase in knowledge and skills among CHWs demonstrating that there are certain activities that can be shifted to CHWs following training.

A Community Health Volunteer Involvement Program for Glycated Hemoglobin Reduction Among Thai Patients With Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes: A Mixed-Method Study

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is increasing and a shortage exists of nurses to care for patients. Community health volunteers (CHVs) pose potential supportive networks in assisting patients to perform healthy behaviors.

Aim:

The study aimed to develop and investigate the effects of a CHV involvement program on reducing glycated hemoglobin (HbA_1c) levels among Thai patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

This sequential mixed-method study was conducted from January to June 2019. Sixty patients with HbA_1c exceeding 7% were recruited from 2 communities assigned as the intervention and comparison groups. Using King’s General Systems Framework as a basis to develop the program, the study initially explored the perceptions of diabetes and its management among patients, family members, and CHVs. Then, a quasi-experimental study with 2 groups pretest-posttest design was conducted and compared with usual care. The intervention included educational sessions, home visits, and activities created by CHVs including a campaign, broadcasting, and health food shops. Quantitative data were collected at baseline and 20-week follow-up and analyzed by descriptive statistics, Independent t-test, and paired t-test.

Results:

The intervention group exhibited a lower mean HbA_1c (p < .001) and reported significant, improvement concerning diabetes knowledge, self-efficacy, perceived support, and behavior compared with the comparison group at the end of the study (Cohen’s d > 1.0, effect size large).

Conclusion:

Applying this framework to develop the program could benefit glycemic control among patients with uncontrolled diabetes residing in communities. Further studies should be conducted on a large sample to demonstrate the efficacy of the program.

Effectiveness of a Non-pharmacological Intervention to Control Diabetes Mellitus in a Primary Care Setting in Kerala: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Despite being the first Indian state with a dedicated Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) program, glycemic control among a large proportion of patients is low in Kerala. This study tries to find evidence for a standardized non-pharmacological strategy delivered through Junior Public Health Nurses (JPHNs) in achieving and maintaining glycemic control among diabetic patients registered with NCD clinics of primary health care settings. Design: A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among adult patients with Diabetes Mellitus attending NCD clinics of primary care settings of South Kerala, India. JPHNs of the intervention group received additional module-based training while standard management continued in the control group. Sequence generation was done by random permuted blocks method and a cluster of 12 patients was selected from each of the 11 settings by computer-generated random numbers. Patients were followed up for 6 months with monthly monitoring of Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Post-Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS), blood pressure, Body Mass Index (BMI), and health-related behaviors. Knowledge and skills/practice of JPHNs were also evaluated. Analysis of Covariance was done to study the final outcome adjusting for the baseline values and a model for glycemic control was predicted using multilevel modeling. Results: We analyzed 72 participants in the intervention group and 60 participants in the control group according to the intention-to-treat principle. The intervention was associated with a significant reduction in FBS (p < 0.001) and PPBS (p < 0.001) adjusting for the baseline values. The achievement of glycemic control was 1.5 (95% CI: 1.05-2.3) times better with intervention and they showed a better trend of maintenance of glycemic control (FBS, p = 0.003 and PPBS, p = 0.039). Adjusting for clustering and the baseline values, the intervention showed a significant effect on FBS (B = -3.1, SE = 0.57; p < 0.001) and PPBS (B = -0.81, SE = 0.3; p < 0.001) with time. Drug adherence score (p < 0.001), hours of physical activity (p < 0.001), BMI (p = 0.002), fruit intake (p = 0.004), and green leafy vegetable intake (p = 0.01) were the major predictors of FBS control. The practice/skills score of the JPHNs significantly improved with intervention (p < 0.001) adjusting for baseline values. Conclusion: A well-designed health worker intervention package incorporated into the existing health system can translate into attitude change and skill development in the health workers which can reflect in the improvement of glycemic control among the patients. Trial registration: [URL: http://www.ctri.nic.in], identifier [CTRI/2017/11/010622].

Assessing the Feasibility of an Online Training Designed to Enable Community Health Workers to Deliver a Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Weight Loss Intervention for Rural African Americans of Faith

Obesity is a critical modifiable risk factor in cancer prevention, control, and survivorship. Comprehensive weight loss interventions (e.g., Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)) have been recommended by governmental agencies to treat obesity. However, their high implementation costs limit their reach, especially in underserved African American (AA) communities. Community health workers (CHWs) or trusted community members can help increase access to obesity interventions in underserved regions facing provider shortages. CHW-led interventions have increased weight loss. However, in-person CHW training can be costly to deliver and often requires extensive travel to implement. Web-based trainings have become common to increase reach at reduced cost. However, the feasibility of an online CHW training to deliver the DPP in AAs is unknown. The feasibility of an online CHW training to deliver the DPP adapted for AAs was assessed. The online training was compared to an in-person DPP training with established effectiveness. CHW effectiveness and satisfaction were assessed at baseline and 6 weeks. Nineteen participants (in-person n = 10; online n = 9) were recruited. At post-training, all scored higher than the 80% on a knowledge test required to deliver the intervention. All participants reported high levels of training satisfaction (88.9% of online participants and 90% of in-person participants rated the training as at least 6 on a 1-7 scale) and comfort to complete intervention tasks (78% of online participants and 60% of in-person participants scored at least 6 on a 1-7 scale). There were no significant differences in outcomes by arm. An online CHW training to deliver the DPP adapted for AAs faith communities produced comparable effectiveness and satisfaction to an evidence-based in-person CHW training. Further research is needed to assess the cost-effectiveness of different CHW training modalities to reduce obesity.

Trained Volunteers With Type 2 Diabetes Experience Significant Health Benefits When Providing Peer Support

Trained lay volunteers may have value in supporting lifestyle change programs in the prevention of type 2 diabetes, but the potential health benefits (or harms) experienced by these lay volunteers have not been well described. This is important, as this is an appealing model in terms of workforce planning. The aim of the prespecified quantitative study reported here, was to examine the possible health benefits or harms experienced by these trained lay volunteers with type 2 diabetes. In a large type 2 diabetes prevention program, we recruited and trained 104 lay volunteers with type 2 diabetes themselves, to act as diabetes prevention mentors and codeliver the lifestyle intervention. Mentors made motivational telephone calls to 461 participants randomized to one of the trial arms to encourage lifestyle changes. Weight, diet, physical activity, well-being, quality of life, diabetes-specific self-efficacy, and glycaemic control were measured at baseline, 12 and 24 months. Average mentor age was 62.0 years, 57 (54.8%) were male, 92 (88.5%) were overweight or obese (BMI>30 kg/m²). At 12 months, mentor dietary behaviors (fat and fiber intake) improved significantly, sedentary time spent fell significantly, and diabetes specific self-efficacy scores significantly increased. These significant improvements, with no evidence of harms, suggest lay volunteers with type 2 diabetes codelivering a lifestyle intervention, may themselves experience health benefits from volunteering.

Roles for community health workers in diabetes prevention and management in low- and middle-income countries

Diabetes prevalence is increasing worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), posing the need for improved detection and management strategies. Chronic disease models and lifestyle medicine provide structures for action. Community health workers (CHWs) can significantly contribute to chronic disease care if they are trained and integrated into low-resource health systems. Although most current CHWs worldwide are performing maternal/child health and infectious disease-related tasks, other programs involving CHWs for noncommunicable disease prevention and management are increasing. In this article, we discuss the advantages, challenges, and questions regarding possible roles assigned to CHWs in the prevention and management of diabetes. These roles include performing simple screening tests, implementing lifestyle/behavioral interventions, and connecting patients with alternatives to biomedicine. Specifically, CHWs can aid diabetes epidemiological surveillance by conducting risk score-based screening or capillary glucose testing, and they can facilitate diabetes self-management by delivering interventions described in the transcultural diabetes nutrition algorithm. Furthermore, while this role has not formally been assigned, CHWs can leverage their intimate knowledge of local practices to provide decision-making support to patients in environments with pluralistic health systems. Ethnocultural differences in CHW functions and transcultural adaptations of their roles in diabetes care should also be considered. In summary, CHWs can improve diabetes care by screening high-risk individuals and implementing lifestyle interventions, especially in LMIC.

The Use of Community Health Workers in Community Health Centers

BACKGROUND

Until 2016, community health centers (CHCs) reported community health workers (CHWs) as part of their overall enabling services workforce, making analyses of CHW use over time infeasible in the annual Uniform Data System (UDS).

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine changes in the CHW workforce among CHCs from 2016 to 2018 and factors associated with the use of CHWs.

RESEARCH DESIGN, SUBJECTS, MEASURES

The two-part model estimated separate effects for the probability of using any CHW and extent of CHW full-time equivalents (FTEs) reported in those CHCs, using a total of 4102 CHC-year observations from 2016 to 2018. To estimate the extent to which increases in CHW workforce are attributable to real growth or rather are a consequence of a change in reporting category, we also conducted a difference-in-differences analysis to compare non-CHW enabling services FTEs between CHCs with and without CHWs before (2013-2015) and after (2016-2018) the reporting change in 2016.

RESULTS

The rate of CHCs that employed CHWs rose from 20.04% in 2016 to 28.34% in 2018, while average FTEs stayed relatively flat (3.32 FTEs). Patient visit volume (larger CHCs) and grant funding (less reliant on federal but more reliant on private funding) were significant factors associated with CHW use. However, we found that a substantial portion of this growth was attributable to a change in UDS reporting categories.

CONCLUSION

While we do not address the reasons why CHCs have been slow to use CHWs, our results point to substantial financial barriers associated with CHCs' expanding the use of CHWs.

Management of diabetes mellitus at the household level using community health strategy in Embu County, Kenya

Introduction

diabetes mellitus (DM) causes 1% of the mortality in Kenya and 2% of the population in Kenya has diabetes mellitus. Embu County was the 5^th leading county in diabetes mellitus morbidity in Kenya in 2019. This study aimed at assessing the management of diabetes mellitus at the household level using the community health strategy in Embu County. Community health strategies in the county is implemented using Community Health Volunteers.

Methods

it was a cross-sectional study using 422 household participants in Embu County and 150 community health volunteers´ (CHVs). Key informant interviews were used on community health strategy managers involved in diabetes management programmes in the County. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results

factors that were positively associated with effective management of DM at household level in the County were financial support and supervision of community health units, provision of tools and commodities, use of health information system, training of level of CHVs in management of hypertension and diabetes mellitus and subsequent knowledge on symptoms, defining and classifying DM, treatment, prescription of drugs, knowledge of risk factors of DM and prevention of DM at household level.

Conclusion

success of utilization of community health strategies for diabetes management will require adequate training of CHVs in management of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, financial support of community health units, adequate supervision of community health units, financial support of community health units, provision of tools and commodities and community health units (CHU) utilizing health information system.

Lifestyle Interventions for Diabetes Prevention in South Asians: Current Evidence and Opportunities

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review summarizes the burden of diabetes in South Asian populations and reviews recent evidence for diabetes prevention through lifestyle modification among South Asians worldwide. We indicate important gaps in the current literature and point to opportunities for additional research in this area.

RECENT FINDINGS

Randomized, controlled, efficacy studies and implementation research show that lifestyle intervention can be an effective, cost-effective, and feasible method for reducing diabetes risk, improving cardiometabolic health, and improving lifestyle behaviors in South Asian populations, a population at high diabetes risk and elevated rates of diabetes risk factors. Additional research is needed to address diabetes risk reduction in normal-weight South Asians and individuals with impaired fasting glucose; improve community-level implementation, individual uptake, and dissemination of proven programs; and assess long-term outcomes of interventions.

A randomized trial to decrease risk for diabetes among Cambodian Americans with depression: Intervention development, baseline characteristics and process outcomes

Background:

Depression and antidepressant medications are associated with increased risk for type 2 diabetes. It is not known if diabetes can be prevented in the setting of depression. Cambodian Americans have high rates of both depression and diabetes. This paper reports intervention development, experimental design, baseline characteristics, and process outcomes of diabetes prevention interventions for Cambodian Americans with depression, “Diabetes Risk Reduction through Eat, Walk, Sleep and Medication Therapy Management” (DREAM).

Methods:

Participants were aged 35–75, Khmer speaking, at high risk for developing diabetes, and met criteria for likely depression by either a) antidepressant medication and/or b) elevated depressive symptoms at two time-points during a study eligibility period. Treatment arms were: 1) community health educator (CHE) delivered lifestyle intervention called Eat, Walk, Sleep (EWS), 2) EWS plus pharmacist/CHE-delivered medication therapy management (EWS + MTM), and, 3) social services (SS; control).

Results:

188 participants were randomized. Treatment fidelity was high (98% checklist adherence) and on a scale from 0 to 3, participants reported high EWS treatment satisfaction (M = 2.9, SD = 0.2), group cohesion (M = 2.9, SD = 0.3), and therapeutic alliance to CHEs (M = 2.9, SD = 0.2) and to pharmacists (2.9, SD = 0.3). Attendance was challenging but highly successful; in EWS, 99% attended ≥ one session and 86% completed ≥ 24 sessions, M = 27.3 (SD = 3.7) sessions. Of those randomized to EWS + MTM, 98% attended at least one MTM session and 77%) completed ≥ 4 sessions. Retention was high, 95% at 12-month and 96% at 15-month assessments.

Conclusions:

The interventions were successfully implemented. Lessons learned and suggestions for future trials are offered.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02502929

Comparison between volunteer- and expert-led versions of a community-based weight-loss intervention

•

We compared the effects of volunteer- and expert-led weight-loss intervention.

•

Participants were instructed to maintain a well-balanced, low-energy diet.

•

The completion proportions was significantly higher in the expert-led group.

•

The degree of body weight change was similar for both groups.

•

Such programs could be an alternative strategy for low-cost obesity management.

This study compared the effect of volunteer- and expert-led versions of a community-based weight-loss intervention in a non-randomized comparative trial conducted in Ibaraki, Japan from 2016 to 2017. Participants were 145 Japanese adults with overweightness or obesity, aged 20–69 years, with 77 in a volunteer-led group and 68 in an expert-led group. Both groups received the same program content and intervention period. Community volunteers were trained in four or five 3-hour training sessions while experts were highly trained and experienced professionals in the fields of exercise and nutrition prescription. Participants were also instructed to maintain a well-balanced, low-energy diet. The primary outcome measure was body weight change. In the volunteer- and expert-led groups, 58 of 77 (75%) and 61 of 68 (95%) participants completed the 12-week intervention, respectively. The mean (95% confidence interval, CI) weight loss of the volunteer-led group was 6.4 (95% CI: 5.6–7.2) kg, corresponding to 8.9% of initial body weight, while that of the expert-led group was 6.3 (95% CI: 5.5–7.1) kg, corresponding to 8.2% of the initial body weight. The proportion of participants who completed the course was significantly higher in the expert-led group (P < 0.05); however, the degree of the body weight change was similar for both groups. With improvement in the completion proportion of the volunteer-led weight-loss interventions, such programs could be an alternative strategy for the wide-scale dissemination of low-cost obesity management.

Lifestyle Intervention With or Without Lay Volunteers to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes in People With Impaired Fasting Glucose and/or Nondiabetic Hyperglycemia: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Nearly half of the older adult population has diabetes or a high-risk intermediate glycemic category, but we still lack trial evidence for effective type 2 diabetes prevention interventions in most of the current high-risk glycemic categories.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether a group-based lifestyle intervention (with or without trained volunteers with type 2 diabetes) reduced the risk of progression to type 2 diabetes in populations with a high-risk glycemic category.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

The Norfolk Diabetes Prevention Study was a parallel, 3-arm, group-based, randomized clinical trial conducted with up to 46 months of follow-up from August 2011 to January 2019 at 135 primary care practices and 8 intervention sites in the East of England. We identified 141 973 people at increased risk of type 2 diabetes, screened 12 778 (9.0%), and randomized those with a high-risk glycemic category, which was either an elevated fasting plasma glucose level alone (≥110 and <126 mg/dL [to convert to millimoles per liter, multiply by 0.0555]) or an elevated glycated hemoglobin level (≥6.0% to <6.5%; nondiabetic hyperglycemia) with an elevated fasting plasma glucose level (≥100 to <110 mg/dL).

INTERVENTIONS

A control arm receiving usual care (CON), a theory-based lifestyle intervention arm of 6 core and up to 15 maintenance sessions (INT), or the same intervention with support from diabetes prevention mentors, trained volunteers with type 2 diabetes (INT-DPM).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Type 2 diabetes incidence between arms.

RESULTS

In this study, 1028 participants were randomized (INT, 424 [41.2%] [166 women (39.2%)]; INT-DPM, 426 [41.4%] [147 women (34.5%)]; CON, 178 [17.3%] [70 women (%39.3)]) between January 1, 2011, and February 24, 2017. The mean (SD) age was 65.3 (10.0) years, mean (SD) body mass index 31.2 (5) (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared), and mean (SD) follow-up 24.7 (13.4) months. A total of 156 participants progressed to type 2 diabetes, which comprised 39 of 171 receiving CON (22.8%), 55 of 403 receiving INT (13.7%), and 62 of 414 receiving INT-DPM (15.0%). There was no significant difference between the intervention arms in the primary outcome (odds ratio [OR], 1.14; 95% CI, 0.77-1.7; P = .51), but each intervention arm had significantly lower odds of type 2 diabetes (INT: OR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.34-0.85; P = .01; INT-DPM: OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.39-0.96; P = .033; combined: OR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.38-0.87; P = .01). The effect size was similar in all glycemic, age, and social deprivation groups, and intervention costs per participant were low at $153 (£122).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The Norfolk Diabetes Prevention lifestyle intervention reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes in current high-risk glycemic categories. Enhancing the intervention with DPM did not further reduce diabetes risk. These translatable results are relevant for current diabetes prevention efforts.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN Registry Identifier: ISRCTN34805606.

Effectiveness of lay-led, group-based self-management interventions to improve glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), self-efficacy, and emergency visit rates among adults with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a debilitating health condition that is rapidly increasing in prevalence globally. Diabetes self-management is known as an important aspect of diabetes care, and group-based self-management interventions led by lay leaders have been explored previously. However, the effects of such an interventional approach to improve glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, self-efficacy, and emergency visit rates among adults with type 2 diabetes remains inconclusive.

OBJECTIVES

To review and perform a meta-analysis systematically of the effectiveness of lay-led, group-based self-management interventions to improve HbA1c levels, self-efficacy, and frequency of emergency visit rates in adults with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted through the following seven databases: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. Screening and assessment for risk of bias were conducted by two independent reviewers. Meta-analyses were performed for HbA1c levels, self-efficacy, and frequency of emergency visits, using RevMan 5.3 software.

RESULTS

Sixteen randomized controlled trials were included in this review. Meta-analyses results indicated significant effects on HbA1c (pooled MD = 0.23, 95% CI [-0.41, -0.05], p = 0.01) self-efficacy (d = 0.27; 95% CI [0.19, 0.36]; p <0.00001), and frequency of emergency visits (pooled MD = 0.15; 95% CI [-0.26, -0.05]; p = 0.004], favoring the intervention groups. However, possible publication bias was detected. Significant heterogeneity was observed for HbA1c but not for self-efficacy or frequency of emergency visits.

CONCLUSIONS

Possible effects of lay-led, group-based self-management interventions on improving HbA1c, self-efficacy, and frequency of emergency visits among adults with type 2 diabetes were demonstrated in this review. Although possible publication bias and heterogeneity were detected for HbA1c, the results point toward a potentially feasible and effective treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes, allowing them to manage and sustain self-care behaviors.

Cardiovascular disease prevention knowledge and associated factors among adults in Mukono and Buikwe districts in Uganda

Background

With the growing epidemic of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) in sub-Saharan Africa, behavioural change interventions are critical in supporting populations to achieve better cardiovascular health. Population knowledge regarding CVD is an important first step for any such interventions. This study examined CVD prevention knowledge and associated factors among adults in Mukono and Buikwe districts in Uganda.

Methods

The study was cross-sectional in design conducted among adults aged 25 to 70 years as part of the baseline assessment by the Scaling-up Packages of Interventions for Cardiovascular disease prevention in selected sites in Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa (SPICES) – project. Data were collected using pretested semi-structured questionnaires, and respondents categorized as knowledgeable if they scored at least five out of six in the knowledge questions. Data were exported into STATA version 15.0 statistical software for analysis conducted using mixed-effects Poisson regression with fixed and random effects and robust standard errors.

Results

Among the 4372 study respondents, only 776 (17.7%) were knowledgeable on CVD prevention. Most respondents were knowledgeable about foods high in calories 2981 (68.2%), 2892 (66.1%) low fruit and vegetable intake and high salt consumption 2752 (62.9%) as CVD risk factors. However, majority 3325 (76.1%) thought the recommended weekly moderate physical activity was 30 min and half 2262 (51.7%) disagreed or did not know that it was possible to have hypertension without any symptoms. Factors associated with high CVD knowledge were: post-primary education [APR = 1.55 (95% CI: 1.18–2.02), p = 0.002], formal employment [APR = 1.69 (95% CI: 1.40–2.06), p < 0.001] and high socio-economic index [APR = 1.35 (95% CI: 1.09–1.67), p = 0.004]. Other factors were: household ownership of a mobile phone [APR = 1.35 (95% CI: 1.07–1.70), p = 0.012] and ever receiving advice on healthy lifestyles [APR = 1.38 (95% CI: 1.15–1.67), p = 0.001].

Conclusions

This study found very low CVD knowledge with major gaps around recommended physical activity duration, diet and whether hypertension is asymptomatic. Observed knowledge gaps should inform suitable interventions and strategies to equip and empower communities with sufficient information for CVD prevention.

Trial registration

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN15848572, January 2019, retrospectively registered.

Layperson-Led vs Professional-Led Behavioral Interventions for Weight Loss in Pediatric Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

The appropriate approach for weight loss among children and adolescents with overweight and obesity remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the difference in the treatment outcomes associated with behavioral weight loss interventions led by laypersons and professionals in comparison with unsupervised control arms among children and adolescents with overweight and obesity.

DATA SOURCES

For this systematic review and meta-analysis, the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases were searched from January 1, 1996, to June 1, 2019.

STUDY SELECTION

Included in this study were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of behavioral interventions lasting at least 12 weeks for children and adolescents (aged 5-18 years) with overweight and obesity. Exclusion criteria included non-RCT studies, interventions lasting less than 12 weeks, adult enrollment, participants with other medical diagnoses, pharmacological treatment use, and articles not written in English. Two of 6 reviewers independently screened all citations. Of 25 586 citations, after duplicate removal, 78 RCTs (5780 participants) met eligibility criteria.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

A bayesian framework and Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation methods were used to combine direct and indirect associations. Random-effects and fixed-effect network meta-analysis models were used with the preferred model chosen by comparing the deviance information criteria. This study was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The immediate and sustained changes in weight and body mass index (BMI) standardized mean difference (SMD) were primary outcomes planned before data collection began, whereas waist circumference and percent body fat were secondary outcomes. The hypothesis being tested was formulated before the data collection.

RESULTS

Of 25 586 citations retrieved, we included 78 RCTs (5780 participants), with a follow-up of 12 to 104 weeks. Compared with the control condition, random-effects models revealed that professional-led weight loss interventions were associated with reductions in weight (mean difference [MD], -1.60 kg [95% CI, -2.30 to -0.99 kg]; 68 trials; P < .001) and BMI (SMD, -0.30 [95% CI, -0.39 to -0.20]; 59 trials; P < .001) that were not sustained long term (weight MD, -1.02 kg [95% CI, -2.20 to 0.34 kg]; 21 trials; P = .06; BMI SMD, -0.12 [95% CI, -0.46 to 0.21]; 20 trials; P < .001). There was no association between layperson-led interventions and weight loss in the short-term (MD, -1.40 kg [95% CI, -3.00 to 0.26 kg]; 5 trials; P = .05) or long-term (MD, -0.98 kg [95% CI, -3.60 to 1.80 kg]; 1 trial; P = .23) compared with standard care. No difference was found in head-to-head trials (professional vs layperson MD, -0.25 kg [95% CI -1.90 to 1.30 kg]; 5 trials; P = .38).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This systematic review and meta-analysis found that professional-led weight loss interventions were associated with short-term but not sustained weight reduction among children and adolescents with overweight or obesity, and the evidence for layperson-led approaches was insufficient to draw firm conclusions.

Effectiveness of a community health worker (CHW) training in monitoring and care of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in rural Gujarat, India

Context:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the second leading contributor to the disease burden of India. The current COPD burden cannot be managed effectively just through a physician-based approach. In a primary care setting, community health workers (CHWs) can play an effective role in making COPD care accessible and effective.

Aim:

Findings of an assessment of a training program for CHWs on COPD have been reported here. Methods: 90 CHWs working as a part of a noncommunicable disease prevention and care program in a rural primary care setting were exposed to a series of five training sessions. The sessions were designed and administered jointly by a team of public health experts and physiotherapists in the year 2017–18. Topics covered were basic clinical aspects of COPD, monitoring a patient with COPD, and basic aspects of pulmonary rehabilitation. The assessment comprised 12 MCQs and short questions, 7 video exercises, 2 case vignettes, and 5 skill assessments through objectively structured clinical examination (OSCE).

Statistical Analysis:

Mean percentage scores were calculated for each domain of assessment to make it comparable.

Results:

70 CHWs with a mean age of 42.2 years completed all the training and underwent the assessment. Mean percentage score (SD) for knowledge was 62% (16.3). In OSCE assessment, scores were best in sputum clearance technique demonstration (92.1%) and the least in dyspnea relieving positions (59.2%). The CHWs had difficulties in identifying signs of respiratory distress (score - 55.1%). No statistically significant association was observed between performance scores and their sociodemographic profile.

Conclusion:

The results were encouraging and the program may be pilot tested in a government setting particularly using the health and wellness centers (HWC) platform.

Review of Ongoing Activities and Challenges to Improve the Care of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Across Africa and the Implications for the Future

Background

There has been an appreciable increase in the number of people in Africa with metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in recent years as a result of a number of factors. Factors include lifestyle changes, urbanisation, and the growing consumption of processed foods coupled with increasing levels of obesity. Currently there are 19 million adults in Africa with diabetes, mainly T2DM (95%), estimated to grow to 47 million people by 2045 unless controlled. This has a considerable impact on morbidity, mortality and costs in the region. There are a number of issues to address to reduce the impact of T2DM including improving detection rates and current access to services alongside addressing issues of adherence to prescribed medicines. There are also high rates of co-morbidities with infectious diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis in patients in Africa with T2DM that require attention.

Objective

Document ongoing activities across Africa to improve the care of patients with T2DM especially around issues of identification, access, and adherence to changing lifestyles and prescribed medicines. In addition, discussing potential ways forward to improve the care of patients with T2DM based on ongoing activities and experiences including addressing key issues associated with co-morbidities with infectious diseases.

Our Approach

Contextualise the findings from a wide range of publications including internet based publications of national approaches coupled with input from senior level government, academic and other professionals from across Africa to provide future guidance.

Ongoing Activities

A number of African countries are actively instigating programmes to improve the care of patients with T2DM starting with improved diagnosis. This recognises the growing burden of non-communicable diseases across Africa, which has been neglected in the past. Planned activities include programmes to improve detection rates and address key issues with diet and lifestyle changes, alongside improving monitoring of care and activities to enhance adherence to prescribed medicines. In addition, addressing potential complexities involving diabetes patients with infectious disease co-morbidities. It is too early to fully assess the impact of such activities.

Conclusion

There are a number of ongoing activities across Africa to improve the management of patients with diabetes including co-morbidities. However, more needs to be done considering the high and growing burden of T2DM in Africa. Ongoing research will help further benefit resource allocation and subsequent care.

Community health worker perspectives of an academic community medication therapy management collaboration

OBJECTIVE

To qualitatively assess community health workers' (CHWs') perceptions of the challenges and benefits associated with participating in a collaborative, interprofessional medication therapy management (MTM) program for rural, underserved, predominantly Latinx, patients with diabetes and hypertension.

METHODS

Nine CHWs participated in a 1-hour, semistructured focus group that explored their experiences while assisting in the delivery of MTM services through an academic community partnership between an MTM provider and participating rural clinics. Audio recordings of the focus group were transcribed and thematically analyzed by 2 independent reviewers.

RESULTS

All program-involved CHWs participated in the focus group. Qualitative analysis identified 2 overarching themes: (1) opportunities and (2) challenges. Opportunities were further subcategorized as benefits to (1) CHWs, (2) patients, or (3) academic community MTM research. The CHWs perceived that they served as a liaison among the medical provider (prescriber), patient, and MTM pharmacist. Benefits to the patients focused on the integration of CHWs as essential to patient recruitment, especially for those who were reluctant to participate or receive a phone call from a stranger. The major challenges identified were (1) interruptions in workflow and (2) communication between CHWs and the health care practitioners (physicians, nurse practitioners, pharmacists). Specifically, the CHWs universally agreed that they needed more time after receiving patient report, scheduling a visit with the patient, and communicating with the patient's health care provider to better understand the individual's circumstances and needs.

CONCLUSION

This study identified perceived opportunities and challenges faced by CHWs and chronically ill, rural Latinx patients in the acceptance of MTM program. These findings may be useful for all interprofessional health care team members to better understand and appreciate the role of CHWs, while simultaneously enhancing and improving respective medication adherence efforts, and to improve collaborative, academic community programs in the future.

Assessment of Barriers and Facilitators to the Delivery of Care for Noncommunicable Diseases by Nonphysician Health Workers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Qualitative Analysis

IMPORTANCE

Cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Previous studies show that nonphysician health workers (NPHWs), including nurses and volunteers, can provide effective diagnosis and treatment of NCDs. However, the factors that facilitate and impair these programs are incompletely understood.

OBJECTIVE

To identify health system barriers to and facilitators of NPHW-led care for NCDs in low- and middle-income countries.

DATA SOURCES

All systematic reviews in PubMed published by May 1, 2018.

STUDY SELECTION

The search terms used for this analysis included "task shifting" and "non-physician clinician." Only reviews of NPHW care that occurred entirely or mostly in low- and middle-income countries and focused entirely or mostly on NCDs were included. All studies cited within each systematic review that cited health system barriers to and facilitators of NPHW care were reviewed.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Assessment of study eligibility was performed by 1 reviewer and rechecked by another. The 2 reviewers extracted all data. Reviews were performed from November 2017 to July 2018. All analyses were descriptive.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

All barriers and facilitators mentioned in all studies were tallied and sorted according to the World Health Organization's 6 building blocks for health systems.

RESULTS

This systematic review and qualitative analysis identified 15 review articles, which cited 156 studies, of which 71 referenced barriers to and facilitators of care. The results suggest 6 key lessons: (1) select qualified NPHWs embedded within the community they serve; (2) provide detailed, ongoing training and supervision; (3) authorize NPHWs to prescribe medication and render autonomous care; (4) equip NPHWs with reliable systems to track patient data; (5) furnish NPHWs consistently with medications and supplies; and (6) compensate NPHWs adequately commensurate with their roles.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Although the health system barriers to NPHW screening, treatment, and control of NCDs and their risk factors are numerous and complex, a diverse set of care models has demonstrated strategies to address nearly all of these challenges. These facilitating approaches-which relate chiefly to strong, consistent NPHW training, guidance, and logistical support-generate a blueprint for the creation and scale-up of such programs adaptable across multiple chronic diseases, including in high-income countries.

Implementation effectiveness of health interventions for indigenous communities: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Translating research into practice is an important issue for implementing health interventions effectively for Indigenous communities. He Pikinga Waiora (HPW) is a recent implementation framework that provides a strong foundation for designing and implementing health interventions in Indigenous communities for non-communicable diseases around community engagement, culture-centred approach, systems thinking and integrated knowledge translation. This study addresses the following research question: How are the elements of the HPW Implementation Framework reflected in studies involving the implementation of a non-communicable disease health intervention in an Indigenous community?

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted using multiple databases. Studies were included if they involved the implementation or evaluation of a health intervention targeting non-communicable diseases for Indigenous communities in Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the United States of America. Published quantitative and qualitative literature from 2008 to 2018 were included. Methodological appraisal of the included articles was completed using the Joanna Briggs Institute System for the Unified Management, Assessment and Review of Information. Data on the population, topic, methods, and outcomes were detailed for each individual study. Key data extracted included the HPW elements along with study characteristics, who delivered the intervention and health outcomes. Data analysis involved a qualitative synthesis of findings as guided by a coding scheme of the HPW elements.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies were included. Health topics included diabetes, nutrition, weight loss, cancer and general health. The key themes were as follows: (a) two thirds of studies demonstrated high levels of community engagement; (b) from the culture-centred approach, two-thirds of studies reflected moderate to high levels of community voice/agency although only a third of the studies included structural changes and researcher reflexivity; (c) about a quarter of studies included multi-level outcomes and activities consistent with systems thinking, 40% had individual-level outcomes with some systems thinking, and 33% included individual-level outcomes and limited systems thinking; and (d) almost 40% of studies included high levels of end user (e.g., policy makers and tribal leaders) engagement reflective of integrated knowledge translation, but nearly half had limited end-user engagement.

CONCLUSIONS

The HPW Implementation Framework is a comprehensive model for potentially understanding implementation effectiveness in Indigenous communities. The review suggests that the studies are reflective of high levels of community engagement and culture-centredness. The long-term sustainability and translation of evidence to practice may be inhibited because of lower levels of systems thinking and integrated knowledge translation.

REGISTRATION

Not registered.

Recruitment, retention, and training of people with type 2 diabetes as diabetes prevention mentors (DPM) to support a healthcare professional-delivered diabetes prevention program: the Norfolk Diabetes Prevention Study (NDPS)

OBJECTIVE

Intensive lifestyle interventions reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in populations at highest risk, but staffing levels are usually unable to meet the challenge of delivering effective prevention strategies to a very large at-risk population. Training volunteers with existing type 2 diabetes to support healthcare professionals deliver lifestyle interventions is an attractive option.

METHODS

We identified 141 973 people at highest risk of diabetes in the East of England, screened 12 778, and randomized 1764 into a suite of type 2 diabetes prevention and screen detected type 2 diabetes management trials. A key element of the program tested the value of volunteers with type 2 diabetes, trained to act as diabetes prevention mentors (DPM) when added to an intervention arm delivered by healthcare professionals trained to support participant lifestyle change.

RESULTS

We invited 9951 people with type 2 diabetes to become DPM and 427 responded (4.3%). Of these, 356 (83.3%) were interviewed by phone, and of these 131 (36.8%) were interviewed in person. We then appointed 104 of these 131 interviewed applicants (79%) to the role (mean age 62 years, 55% (n=57) male). All DPMs volunteered for a total of 2895 months, and made 6879 telephone calls to 461 randomized participants. Seventy-six (73%) DPMs volunteered for at least 6 months and 66 (73%) for at least 1 year.

DISCUSSION

Individuals with type 2 diabetes can be recruited, trained and retained as DPM in large numbers to support a group-based diabetes prevention program delivered by healthcare professionals. This volunteer model is low cost, and accesses the large type 2 diabetes population that shares a lifestyle experience with the target population. This is an attractive model for supporting diabetes prevention efforts.