Work

Perceptions of a mHealth Intervention for Improving Social Support and Diabetes Self- management for Emergency Department Patients in Southern California

Year: 2026

Type: preprint

Abstract: Aims: In this study, we conducted a qualitative analysis of an internet and communication technologies (ICT) social support intervention for low-income, inner-city patients with diabetes receiving care in the emergency department (ED). Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with patients and their supporters at the end of a trial of an ICT augmented social support intervention for patients in the ED with diabetes. The interview guides were designed to identify persuasive program aspects, changes in psycho-social factors and reasons supporter selection. We imported transcripts into a qualitative analysis program and iteratively analyzed using a constructivist grounded theory approach. Broad categorical themes arose from the initial codes. Results: Through the analysis of the transcripts, patients and supporters identified positive and motivating program components. Several additional themes emerged regarding the experience with the intervention: 1) Selection of Supporters, 2) Perceived Program Benefits, 3) Changes in Motivations for Diabetes Self-Management, and 4) Social Context Challenges to Self-Management. Conclusions: Augmenting a ICT diabetes intervention with social support messages to family members was well received and was perceived to change psychosocial factors. Social determinants of health, including access to care and medication affordability, may need to be simultaneously addressed to obtain maximal benefits. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03178773), registered 20170605. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03178773), registered 20170605.

Source: Research Square

DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-10275332/v1