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Who participates in Internet-based self-management programs? A study among novice computer users in a primary care
E G Feil1, R E Glasgow2, S Boles1
1The Oregon Research Institute, Eugene, Oregon (Drs Feil, Boles, and McKay)
The Diabetes Educator
|January 5, 2001
Summary
Most type 2 diabetes patients will join online self-management programs. Participation is higher in younger patients with fewer years of diabetes, and not affected by computer access.
Area of Science:
- Digital health interventions
- Diabetes self-management
- Primary care research
Background:
- Internet-based programs offer scalable solutions for diabetes self-management.
- Understanding patient participation is crucial for program success.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate participation rates in an Internet-based diabetes self-management program.
- Identify factors influencing nonparticipation among primary care patients.
Main Methods:
- Primary care providers invited type 2 diabetes patients to an online program.
- Research staff assessed eligibility and interest via phone, collecting reasons for declining.
- Demographic and medical data were gathered for analysis.
Main Results:
- 60% of eligible patients participated.
- Participants were younger and diagnosed more recently than nonparticipants.
- Nonparticipation was not linked to computer/Internet access or familiarity.
Conclusions:
- Older patients with no prior Internet experience will participate if barriers are addressed.
- Internet-based self-management programs show promise for type 2 diabetes care.
- Targeted strategies may improve engagement in digital health interventions.