Telemedicine-Assisted Self-Management Program for Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Lifestyle interventions with personalized self-management programs have shown benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a devastating highly prevalent disease worldwide. Despite advances in drug therapy and nonpharmacological strategies achieved in the past recent years, self-management programs to be implemented in everyday life are needed. The aim of the present prospective study was to evaluate the effects, in terms of glycated hemoglobin (HbA_1c) values and self-management behavior, of a telemedicine-assisted self-management program offered to T2DM patients by a large private health insurance company. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Participants with T2DM included 60 adults in the intervention group (<i>M</i> = 59.4 years) and 55 adults in the control group (<i>M</i> = 58.4 years). In the beginning of the study, the intervention group was provided with a tablet computer, a glucometer, and a step counter. Additionally, they received an individual need-based telephone coaching to address and improve motivation and diabetes self-management in daily life. The control group received care as usual and were not offered additional treatment. The study examined the results of a diabetes lifestyle program after 3 months. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The intervention resulted in significantly greater declines in HbA_1c compared with the control group. In addition, tele-assisted participants showed significant improvements in Diabetes Self-Management scale score and body mass index compared with usual care participants. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Patients with T2DM can benefit from telemedicine-assisted self-management programs, which may offer new options for treatment and prevention of disease progression. More follow-up and research is needed to assess feasibility and effectiveness on a larger scale.