Developing of diabetes care model in urban area during the COVID -19 pandemic

Abstract

This action research aimed to develop and evaluate a diabetes care model in urban areas during COVID-19 pandemic using the Chronic Care Model concept. The action research process of Kemmis & McTaggart was applied and comprised of planning, action, observation, and reflection.  The duration of the project was six months.

A sample of 45 diabetes patients was recruited using purposive sampling according to inclusion criteria. A sample of 35 healthcare workers also enlisted and consisted of physicians, nurses, and public health technical officers. These healthcare personnel functioned as family care team and take care of population in in the Phitsanulok Municipality area. The research instrument included urban diabetes care model. Data collection tools consisted of Application Line, fingertip blood glucose device, diabetic self-care behavior questionnaire, satisfaction questionnaire of service providers, and feasibility questionnaire of the model. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the paired sample t-test, and One Way ANOVA.

The result revealed that HbA1c of the diabetes patients before and after using the model were not differ. The average self-care behaviors scores on diet control, taking medication, and continuity of care, after applying the diabetes care model, were significantly higher than before the diabetes care model implementation (p < .05). Healthcare providers reported a high level of satisfaction with the diabetes care model. They also gave a high score on the feasibility of the diabetes care model implementation. The aspect on the guideline can solve problems and have a positive effect on the patients got the highest average score.