The Outlook of Healthcare Providers on the Involvement of Diabetic Patients as Health Promoters for Diabetes Prevention Among Their Family Members: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background and objectiveExamples of patients becoming health promoters for diabetes prevention in their own families, although few, are on the rise. Nevertheless, despite this increase in patient involvement in diabetes prevention, there is scarce research regarding healthcare providers' perspectives on the active engagement of patients as health promoters for their family members. In light of this, we aimed to explore the perspectives of healthcare providers working at primary health clinics regarding patient involvement in diabetes prevention among their own family members and close relatives. MethodologyThis study was conducted between July and December 2022 at the Primary Healthcare Clinics at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, in Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Semistructured interviews based on purposive sampling were conducted with 13 participants, and their data were thematically analyzed. ResultsTwo main themes emerged from the interviews: the patients' readiness to be health promoters and the willingness of healthcare staff to support promoter patients. Healthcare providers perceived the involvement of diabetes patients in promoting the health of their family members and close relatives as beneficial; however, several barriers may prevent these patients from becoming effective health promoters. ConclusionsHealthcare providers understand the significance of involving patients with diabetes as health promoters for their family members and close relatives. Patients can offer unique insights into the lived experience of diabetes management, as well as provide practical advice for lifestyle adjustments. Nevertheless, healthcare providers should also recognize the limits of patients' knowledge and skills and ensure that patients receive proper training and support to serve as effective health educators.

Empowering adult patients with diabetes for health educators’ role within their family members: A cross-sectional study

“…Part two: Patients' willingness, confidence levels, and influencing factors. Based on the HBM's factors and previous studies, participants were asked about different dimensions to assess their willingness and confidence in their ability to succeed as health educators for their family members and to investigate the influencing factors [2][3][4][5]7,10]. Responses are based on their agreement on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from "Strongly agree" to "Strongly disagree".…”

“…In the realm of healthcare, addressing the growing concerns surrounding diabetes has become increasingly important [ 1 ]. Among the innovative strategies emerging to tackle this global health issue, a particularly novel approach involves harnessing the power of those who are already familiar with the challenges of diabetes–patients themselves [ 2 , 3 ]. This innovative concept entails enlisting individuals living with diabetes to serve as health educators within their local communities [ 2 ].…”

“…Among the innovative strategies emerging to tackle this global health issue, a particularly novel approach involves harnessing the power of those who are already familiar with the challenges of diabetes–patients themselves [ 2 , 3 ]. This innovative concept entails enlisting individuals living with diabetes to serve as health educators within their local communities [ 2 ]. By leveraging their experiences, these patients can offer unique insights, empathy, and practical advice to others who may be at risk of developing diabetes or struggling to manage the condition [ 4 ].…”