The effect of telemedicine on self-care activities of patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and patient satisfaction during the Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) pandemic: A repeated cross-sectional study
10.35460/2546-1621.2023-0066
- Author:
Dionise Ysabelle V. Bawal
1
;
Elaine C. Cunanan
1
,
2
;
Sjoberg A. Kho
1
,
2
Author Information
1. Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Espana,1015 Manila, Philippines
2. Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Santo Tomas, Espana, Manila, Philippines
- Publication Type:Observational Study
- Keywords:
Diabetes;
Self-care activities
- MeSH:
COVID-19;
Telemedicine
- From:
Journal of Medicine University of Santo Tomas
2024;8(1):1354-1361
- CountryPhilippines
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Introduction:Patients with diabetes require regular follow-ups to achieve optimal glycemic targets. The coronavirus- 19 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in interruptions in healthcare delivery placing greater importance on patient’s self-management of their condition. Telemedicine bridged the gap between the physician and patient that was created by community quarantines.
Objective:To determine if there is a difference in patient’s self-care activities before and after using telemedicine using the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ).
Methodology:A descriptive repeated cross-sectional study of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at the University of Santo Tomas Hospital who consulted via telemedicine using different available platforms were included. Self-care was measured using the DSMQ. Patient satisfaction with telemedicine was also assessed using a patient satisfaction survey.
Results:An improvement in self-care practices was seen as significantly higher mean DSMQ scores after telemedicine consultations (6.79 ± 1.33 to 7.32 ± 1.21, p = 0.0015), with the highest scores on dietary control and physical activity. There was a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c on follow up (8.37 ± 2.31 to 7.31 ± 1.36; p<0.00001). Those with well-controlled diabetes (n = 14) at baseline remained to have good control while the proportion of those with poorly controlled diabetes (n = 34) showed improved glycemic control on follow up (p = 0.0045). Most patients were highly satisfied with telemedicine.
Conclusion:The use of telemedicine by patients with diabetes showed numerical improvement in both self-care practices and glycemic control. These findings imply that telemedicine may be mainstreamed as part of diabetes care among Filipinos.
- Full text:jmust 5.pdf
