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Nakitto B, Opedo M, Nansubuga F, Omondi E, Musinguzi E, Otile EC, Ekak S, Nannungi C, Apiyo P, Pebolo PF, Bongomin F. Willingness to start insulin therapy among insulin-naïve persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, Gulu City, Uganda. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2024; 15:20406223241247650. [PMID: 38665975 PMCID: PMC11044801 DOI: 10.1177/20406223241247650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Most patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) will require insulin for glycemic control during their disease. Objectives We evaluated the willingness to start insulin therapy among insulin-naïve persons with DM2 in urban Northern Uganda. Design A facility-based, quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted between June and August 2023 recruiting insulin-naïve type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending routine health care at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, Gulu, Uganda. Methods We gauged participants' willingness to use insulin by asking, 'If your doctor prescribed insulin for you, would you accept to use it?' with responses categorized as either 'Yes' or 'No'. Poisson regression analysis was performed to assess the factors associated with willingness to start insulin therapy. p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results We enrolled 190 participants, with a mean age of 55 ± 12.72 years. Most participants were female (63.7%, n = 121), attained a primary level of education (70.0%, n = 133), and were unemployed (84.2%, n = 160). Overall, 73.4% (n = 138) of the participants were willing to receive insulin therapy if indicated. Participants recently advised on insulin showed a 34% higher willingness [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR): 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06-1.72, p = 0.007], whereas those with a disease duration of 6 years or more were 43% less willing (aPR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.39-0.81, p = 0.002) and those concerns about coping with insulin therapy were 55% less willing to commence insulin therapy (aPR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.39-0.81, p = 0.002). Conclusion About three in every four participants with DM were willing to receive insulin if indicated. However, healthcare providers should consider personalized counseling strategies to alleviate concerns and enhance informed decision-making regarding insulin initiation. Future interventions should focus on addressing specific barriers associated with prolonged disease duration and apprehensions related to insulin therapy to optimize glycemic control in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Moses Opedo
- Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | | | | | | | | | - Steven Ekak
- Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | | | - Paska Apiyo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, Gulu, Uganda
| | | | - Felix Bongomin
- Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, P.O. Box 166, Gulu, UgandaDepartment of Internal Medicine, Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, P.O. Box 160, Gulu, Uganda
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Hsu SH, Tang KP, Lin CH, Chen PC, Wang LH. Applying the theory of planned behavior to investigate type 2 diabetes patients' intention to receive injection therapy. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1066633. [PMID: 36875423 PMCID: PMC9978190 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1066633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study applied the theory of planned behavior (TPB) in shared decision making (SDM) to understand behavioral intention in patients with type 2 diabetes with regard to injection therapy for blood sugar control. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted. Two hundred and fifty-four patients with type 2 diabetes participated this study and were interviewed by pharmacists in different clinics. A patient decision aid (PDA) entitled "Should I receive injection therapy regarding my type 2 diabetes condition?" was developed for this study and served as interview agenda which comprised 18 items to inquire their willingness to use injection therapy and related considerations during the SDM process. Results The questionnaires were revised using item analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and a criteria of Cronbach's α > 0.7. This resulted in three constructs for all questionnaires that fit the TPB model. Attitude (β = 0.432; P < 0.001) and PBC (β = 0.258; P < 0.001) were directly correlated with intention. TPB explained 35.2% of the variance in intention toward the use of injection therapy. Conclusions Attitude and PBC toward injection therapy positively and significantly influence the patients' intention to use injection therapy. Practical implications These findings identify a key association for understanding behavioral intention in patients with type 2 diabetes with regard to blood sugar control during SDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Han Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei City Hospital Yangming Branch, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacy and Master Program, Tajen University, Pingtung City, Taiwan
| | - Kung-Pei Tang
- Department of Education and Humanities in Medicine, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Early Childhood and Family Education, College of Education, National Taipei University of Education, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hui Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei City Hospital Yangming Branch, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacy and Master Program, Tajen University, Pingtung City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chun Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei City Hospital Yangming Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Hsuan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Alsbrooks K, Hoerauf K. Prevalence, causes, impacts, and management of needle phobia: An international survey of a general adult population. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276814. [PMID: 36409734 PMCID: PMC9678288 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Needle phobia is an overlooked condition that affects virtually all medical procedures. Our study aimed to identify how commonly needle phobia is experienced, its underlying reasons, impacts, and potential mitigation strategies. A global survey was conducted in a general adult population using a questionnaire based on a targeted literature review that identified under-researched areas. The 21-item questionnaire was completed on a secure, web-based survey platform. Statistical analyses and models were utilized to identify relationships between participant characteristics and needle phobia. Of the 2,098 participants enrolled in the study, 63.2% (n = 1,325) reported experiencing needle phobia, and rated the intensity of their fear as 5.7 (±2.6) on average on a scale from 0 (no fear) to 10 (very strong/unreasonable fear or avoidance). According to the logistic regression model, other medical fears (odds coefficient = 2.14) and family history (1.67) were the most important factors associated with needle phobia. General anxiety (96.1%) and pain (95.5%) were the most common reasons for needle fear. Of the participants experiencing needle phobia, 52.2% stated avoiding blood draws, followed by 49.0% for blood donations, and 33.1% for vaccinations. While 24.3% of participants have seen a therapist, most have never sought help. The majority have shared their fear with nurses (61.1%) or physicians (44.4%); however, the provider helpfulness was rated as 4.9 (±3.1) on average on a scale from 0 (unhelpful) to 10 (extremely helpful). Utilizing non-invasive alternatives (94.1%) and smaller needles (91.1%) were most commonly identified as potential device-related solutions to alleviate fear; distractions (92.1%) and relaxation techniques (91.7%) were the top non-device-related approaches. Our findings highlight the prevalent nature of needle phobia and provide insights into its etiology and effects on patient care. Clinician responses were not perceived as helpful, emphasizing the need to address needle phobia, and improve patient experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Alsbrooks
- Becton, Dickinson, and Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Klaus Hoerauf
- Becton, Dickinson, and Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ, United States of America
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Ngassa Piotie P, Muchiri JW, Webb EM, Rheeder P. Assessing barriers to insulin therapy among people with type 2 diabetes in South Africa using the Insulin Treatment Appraisal Scale: A cross-sectional survey. Prim Care Diabetes 2022; 16:509-514. [PMID: 35690550 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcd.2022.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To assess barriers to insulin therapy among people with type 2 diabetes after adapting the Insulin Treatment Appraisal Scale (ITAS) to the South African context. METHODS A panel of experts reviewed the original ITAS for clarity and relevance to the South African context. The ITAS was administered to 253 adults with type 2 diabetes attending diabetes outpatient clinics in the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was tested and construct validity was examined using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). PIR was appraised in insulin users and non-users. RESULTS The EFA revealed that the adapted ITAS had a two-factor structure, similar to the original scale, with acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.85). Insulin-using participants had significantly less negative attitudes to insulin therapy than non-users (40.7 ± 7.1 vs. 51.5 ± 11.2, p < 0.001). Compared to participants who used insulin, participants who did not use insulin were afraid of injecting themselves with a needle (71% vs. 11%, p < 0.001) and saw insulin treatment as a sign of worsening diabetes (63% vs. 29%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Consistent with previous studies, participants who were not using insulin had more negative beliefs and attitudes towards insulin treatment than those who were already using insulin. South African clinicians should use the ITAS to assess positive and negative perceptions regarding insulin therapy in both insulin-naïve and insulin-treated people, to evaluate interventions to reduce PIR and improve treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ngassa Piotie
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007 City of Tshwane, South Africa.
| | - Jane W Muchiri
- Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007 City of Tshwane, South Africa.
| | - Elizabeth M Webb
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007 City of Tshwane, South Africa.
| | - Paul Rheeder
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, P/Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007 City of Tshwane, South Africa.
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Ngassa Piotie P, Filmalter C, Mohlala MG, Zulu N, Segale A, Koenaite C, Muchiri JW, Webb EM, Rheeder P. Factors affecting the implementation of a complex health intervention to improve insulin management in primary care: A SWOT analysis. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2022; 14:e1-e9. [PMID: 35924623 PMCID: PMC9350473 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v14i1.3467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In South Africa, initiating and managing insulin in primary care for people living with type 2 diabetes (PLWD) is a major challenge. To address these challenges, a multidisciplinary team from the University of Pretoria (South Africa) developed the Tshwane Insulin project (TIP) intervention. Aim To determine internal and external factors, either facilitators or barriers, that could influence the implementation of the TIP intervention and propose strategies to ensure sustainability. Setting Tshwane District, Gauteng province, South Africa. Methods We used the SWOT framework to qualitatively analyse the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats influencing the implementation of the TIP intervention. Four field researchers and three managers from the TIP team participated in an online group discussion. We also conducted semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers (HCPs) (seven nurses, five doctors) and patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 13). Results Regardless of the identified weaknesses, the TIP intervention was accepted by PLWD and HCPs. Participants identified strengths including app-enabled insulin initiation and titration, pro-active patient follow-up, patient empowerment and provision of glucose monitoring devices. Participants viewed insulin resistance and the attitudes of HCPs as potential threats. Participants suggested that weaknesses and threats could be mitigated by translating education material into local languages and using the lived experiences of insulin-treated patients to address insulin resistance. The procurement of glucose monitoring devices by national authorities would promote the sustainability of the intervention. Conclusion Our findings may help decision-makers and health researchers to improve insulin management for PLWD in resource-constrained settings by using telehealth interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ngassa Piotie
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa; and, University of Pretoria Diabetes Research Centre Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria.
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Ngassa Piotie P, Wood P, Muchiri JW, Webb EM, Rheeder P. Using a nurse-driven and home-based telehealth intervention to improve insulin therapy for people with type 2 diabetes in primary care: a feasibility study. JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGY, METABOLISM AND DIABETES OF SOUTH AFRICA 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/16089677.2022.2074122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ngassa Piotie
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- University of Pretoria Diabetes Research Centre (UP DRC), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Paola Wood
- Division of Biokinetics, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jane W Muchiri
- Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth M Webb
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Paul Rheeder
- University of Pretoria Diabetes Research Centre (UP DRC), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Ngassa Piotie P, Wood P, Muchiri JW, Webb EM, Rheeder P. Attitudes and beliefs of South African primary healthcare practitioners on initiating insulin in people with type 2 diabetes: Findings from the Tshwane Insulin Project (TIP). Prim Care Diabetes 2021; 15:865-870. [PMID: 34167905 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcd.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the attitudes and beliefs of primary healthcare practitioners (HCPs) towards initiating insulin therapy for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in South Africa. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted amongst HCPs from 23 clinics. The nurses' questionnaire was administered by research nurses while doctors completed an online version about their attitudes, beliefs and perceived barriers to initiating insulin. RESULTS Of the 73 HCPs surveyed, 68% were nurses and 84% were women. Only 24% of HCPs believed that most patients would eventually need to initiate insulin regardless of their adherence to treatment regimens and 86% preferred to delay insulin therapy. Doctors were reluctant to initiate insulin, citing patient-related reasons such as low socio-economic level (41%), inability to refrigerate insulin (77%) and inability to self-monitor blood glucose (55%). Doctors mentioned that patient behaviour including not adhering to treatment regimen and appointments (91%) and reluctance to start insulin therapy (82%) influenced their prescription practices. Doctors mentioned that health system factors, including the pressure to see patients quickly (68%) and lack of continuity of care (64%) were barriers to initiating insulin. CONCLUSIONS Optimising insulin therapy in primary care requires health system changes including promoting person-centred care and continuing training for HCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Ngassa Piotie
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007, City of Tshwane, South Africa.
| | - Paola Wood
- Division of Biokinetics, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag 14760, Hatfield, 0001, City of Tshwane, South Africa.
| | - Jane W Muchiri
- Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007, City of Tshwane, South Africa.
| | - Elizabeth M Webb
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007, City of Tshwane, South Africa.
| | - Paul Rheeder
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, P/Bag X323, Arcadia, 0007, City of Tshwane, South Africa.
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Duncanson E, Le Leu RK, Shanahan L, Macauley L, Bennett PN, Weichula R, McDonald S, Burke ALJ, Collins KL, Chur-Hansen A, Jesudason S. The prevalence and evidence-based management of needle fear in adults with chronic disease: A scoping review. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253048. [PMID: 34111207 PMCID: PMC8192004 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about the prevalence and best management of needle fear in adults with chronic disease, who may experience frequent and long-term exposure to needles for lifesaving therapies such as renal dialysis and cancer treatment. Identifying interventions that assist in management of needle fear and associated distress is essential to support these patients with repeated needle and cannula exposure. Method We followed the PRISMA methodology for scoping reviews and systematically searched PsychINFO, PubMed (MEDLINE), ProQuest, Embase and grey literature and reference lists between 1989 and October 2020 for articles related to needle discomfort, distress, anxiety, fear or phobia. The following chronic diseases were included: arthritis, asthma, chronic back pain, cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and mental illness, or kidney failure. Literature concerning dentistry, vaccination, intravenous drug users and paediatric populations were excluded. Results We identified 32 papers reporting prevalence (n = 24), management (n = 5) or both (n = 3). Needle fear prevalence varied in disease cohorts: 17–52% (cancer), 25–47% (chronic kidney disease) and 0.2–80% (diabetes). Assessment methods varied across studies. Management strategies had poor evidence-base, but included needle-specific education, decorated devices, cognitive-behavioural stress management techniques, distraction, and changing the therapy environment or modality. Conclusion Although needle fear is common there is a paucity of evidence regarding interventions to address it among adults living with chronic disease. This scoping review has highlighted the need for improved identification of needle fear in adults and development of interventions are required for these cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Duncanson
- Central and Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Richard K. Le Leu
- Central and Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lisa Shanahan
- Paramount Health Service, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Luke Macauley
- Patient Partner for Central and Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service Clinical Research Group, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Paul N. Bennett
- Clinical and Health Services, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rick Weichula
- Centre for Evidence-based Practices, South Australia, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen McDonald
- Central and Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Anne L. J. Burke
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Psychology Department, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kathryn L. Collins
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Psychology Department, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Anna Chur-Hansen
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Shilpanjali Jesudason
- Central and Northern Adelaide Renal and Transplantation Service, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Ngassa Piotie P, Wood P, Webb EM, Hugo JF, Rheeder P. Designing an integrated, nurse-driven and home-based digital intervention to improve insulin management in under-resourced settings. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab 2021; 12:20420188211054688. [PMID: 34733467 PMCID: PMC8558786 DOI: 10.1177/20420188211054688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In South Africa, initiating insulin for people with type 2 diabetes and subsequent titration is a major challenge for the resource-constrained healthcare system. Inadequate support systems in primary care, including not being able to access blood glucose monitors and test strips for self-monitoring of blood glucose, results in patients with type 2 diabetes being referred to higher levels of care. In primary care, initiation of insulin may be delayed due to a shortage of healthcare workers. The delayed initiation of insulin is also exacerbated by the reported resistance of both healthcare providers and people with type 2 diabetes to start insulin. In South Africa, telehealth provides an opportunity to overcome these challenges and manage insulin therapy in primary care. METHODS We describe the development of a digital health intervention including the framework used, the theoretical approach and subsequent implementation strategies. RESULTS This intervention is an innovative, nurse-driven and app-enabled intervention called 'the Tshwane Insulin Project intervention'. The Tshwane Insulin Project intervention was designed and evaluated using the framework recommended by the Medical Research Council for complex interventions. The Tshwane Insulin Project intervention was developed in four sequential phases: planning, design, implementation and evaluation. The Tshwane Insulin Project intervention followed the Integrated Chronic Disease Management framework to facilitate implementation and acceptability. The Tshwane Insulin Project comprises a facility-level intervention, where nurses evaluate patients and initiate insulin, an individual-level intervention where community healthcare workers visit patients at their homes to follow-up and provide educational information, while using telehealth to enable physician-directed insulin titration if needed, and a community-level intervention aimed at empowering community healthcare workers to support people living with diabetes and raise awareness of diabetes. CONCLUSION The technological advancements in digital health and telemedicine present an opportunity to improve diabetes care in resource-limited countries. This work can inform those intending to develop and implement complex interventions in primary healthcare in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Wood
- Division of Biokinetics, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
| | - Elizabeth M. Webb
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Arcadia, South Africa
| | - Johannes F.M. Hugo
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Arcadia, South Africa; UP COPC Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Arcadia, South Africa
| | - Paul Rheeder
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Arcadia, South Africa
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