Patients', Caregivers', and Providers' Perceived Strategies for Diabetes Care

Objectives: To explore strategies to improve type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) self-management among low-income and minority groups. Methods: Focus groups centered on T2DM self-care behaviors were conducted using convenient sample of patients with T2DM (N = 17), caregivers (N = 5) and healthcare providers (N = 15). Results: Patients and caregivers perceived strategies included improving patient-provider communication, providers' accessibility and compassion, and flexible clinic hours. Strategies identified by providers were realistic patient's expectations, family support, and community resources. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this study is the first to elicit strategies to improve T2DM self-management through a joint meeting of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. Study findings could help inform future efforts to assist patients better manage their T2DM.