Cell Phone-Based Diabetes Self-Management Education to Improve Self-care and HgbA1c in Adults with Type II Diabetes

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, (T2DM) is a chronic condition that affects millions of individuals and is increasing in disease prevalence. T2DM is difficult to manage and can lead to multiple problems that physically and financially distress diabetic individuals. Using a technologically based form of self-management education provides an alternative method to impact clinical outcomes and quality of life positively. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to evaluate the effectiveness of using the smartphone application (“app”) Care4life to support patient education, improve self-care, and glycemic control in patients with T2DM at Wahiawā Health. Methods: Patients attending Wahiawā Health’s Diabetes Self-Management Education class were introduced to the project purpose and benefits of participating in the project. A brochure was distributed to participants with instructions. The Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) pre- and post-self-management questionnaire was used to evaluate participants’ approach to their care. Results: Out of 20 patients that attended the class, four participated in the project. The SDSCA questionnaire reflected that self-care increased post-study, with pre-study mean (M) = 7.45 (standard deviation, SD = 2.93) and post-study M = 8.75 (SD = 3.91). Owing to time restrictions, an HbA1c follow-up was not feasible. Inadequate blood glucose (BG) readings precluded conversion of BG to HbA1c values. Conclusion: The use of a smartphone app has the potential to support patients with T2DM with self-care. A longer intervention time, larger sample size, and repeated observations are needed in future studies.