Diabetes conversation maps :a feasibility study -

Abstract

Background: Diabetes is a worldwide growing chronic illness with diabetes Type 2 accounting for the majority of diabetes cases in developed countries. Self-management was highlighted as a hallmark to attaining successful diabetes outcomes. Moreover, Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) is most beneficial when delivered through structured patient-centered educational programs that provide patients with adequate knowledge and skills to be able to self-manage their illness. As a result Diabetes Conversation Maps (DCM) were designed as an innovative group teaching tool to help patients achieve optimal self-management.Aim: The purpose of this project was to evaluate the feasibility of implementation and effect of Conversation Maps educational sessions on diabetic patients’ confidence, empowerment and motivation to self -manage their diabetes. It also aimed at evaluating patients’ satisfaction with the Conversation Maps.Methods: Two groups of patients diagnosed with diabetes type 2 (total of 8 patients) were recruited from the Outpatient Department of the American University of Beirut Medical Center. Each group was provided with four weekly sessions using the Conversation Maps. The first group received on additional session related to managing diabetes during the month of Ramadan. Evaluation of the maps was done using a pre-post Diabetes Conversation Maps questionnaire developed by Eli Lilly to the eight patients who completed all the sessions.Results: There were challenges in recruiting patients and ensuring attendance of all sessions. Results showed improved confidence and empowerment overall in the self-management of diabetes in the sample. Conversation Maps were evaluated positively in terms of the information provided and the interactions with health professionals and other patients.Conclusions: Implementation of the Conversation Maps is feasible in our hospital setting since there are facilitators who believe in the effectiveness of such educational tools. Nevertheless, time constraints and