Peer Support as Part of Scaling-Up Integrated Care in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Arterial Hypertension at the Primary Healthcare Level: A Study Protocol

Abstract

Introduction Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and arterial hypertension (AH) are among the greatest challenges facing health systems worldwide and require comprehensive patient-centred care. The key to successful management in chronic patients is self-management support, which was found to be only weakly implemented in Slovenia. The aim of the study is to develop an evidence-based model of peer support for people with T2D and AH at the primary healthcare level in Slovenia, which could represent a potential solution for upgrading integrated care for these patients. Methods A prospective interventional, mixed-methods pilot study will begin by recruiting approximately 40 eligible people with T2D and AH through purposive sampling. The participants will receive structured training, led by a specialist nurse, to become trained peer supporters. Each will voluntarily share their knowledge and experience at monthly group meetings with up to 10 people with T2D and AH over a three-month period in the local community. Data will be collected through interviews and focus groups and questionnaires about socio-demographic and clinical data, knowledge about T2D and AH, participants’ quality of life, level of empowerment and acceptability of the intervention. Expected results The study will provide an evidence-based model for integrating peer support into the local community. It is expected that the intervention will prove feasible and acceptable with educational, psychosocial and behavioural benefits. Conclusion Peer support through empowerment of people with T2D and AH, family members and other informal caregivers in the local community could scale-up the integrated care continuum and contribute to sustainability of the healthcare system.

Facilitators and Barriers to Scaling-Up Integrated Care for Arterial Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes in Slovenia: Qualitative Study

“…These findings align with the results of our own study, and two possible solutions were identified. The introduction of peer supporters, who share their own experiences in managing HTN or T2D, is likely to be accepted by all participants ( 30 ). In addition, the implementation of telemonitoring can improve care for vulnerable patients, such as the elderly or those living in geographically distant areas ( 31 ).…”

Stigmatized Stroke? A Qualitative Study of Perception of Stroke Among Community Residents With Hypertension

“…Peer support also plays a positive role in hypertension control [ 64 ]. Research suggests that peer support may enhance the scope of comprehensive care, contributing to the sustainable development of healthcare systems [ 65 ].…”

Perception of Patient Safety Culture at the Primary Care Level: The Case of the Community Health Centre Ljubljana

“…Understanding and addressing factors influencing workload is crucial for developing interventions to improve efficiency, reduce work pace, and prevent burnout ( 17 , 27 ). For the sustainability of the Slovenian healthcare system it is essential to transfer health competences and responsibility from healthcare professionals to empowered patients ( 8 , 29 ). To this end, CHCL recently introduced a model of peer support with trained lay individuals who are CHCL’s volunteers and ambassadors, with the aim of empowering patients, family members and informal caregivers in the local community ( 29 ).…”