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Implementation of a Technology-Enabled Diabetes Self-Management Peer Coaching Intervention for Patients With Poorly
Marvyn R Arévalo Avalos1, Ashwin Patel2, Haci Duru3
1School of Social Welfare, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States.
A technology-enabled peer coaching program improved diabetes self-management and HbA1c levels in patients with uncontrolled diabetes. The program effectively addressed social determinants of health, showing significant clinical benefits for participants.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Digital Health
- Chronic Disease Management
Background:
- Diabetes self-management is crucial for better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
- Peer coaching programs offer a scalable solution to support diabetes self-management and overcome barriers.
- Digital platforms enhance the reach and efficiency of peer support for diabetes care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a technology-enabled peer coaching intervention for diabetes self-management.
- To assess the impact of peer coaching on patients with uncontrolled diabetes.
- To analyze the implementation of digital peer support for chronic disease management.
Main Methods:
- A 6-month peer coaching intervention was implemented for 300 Medicaid patients with uncontrolled diabetes.
- Peer coaches provided evidence-based, goal-oriented sessions addressing behavioral and social determinants of health (SDoH).
- Data included patient demographics, HbA1c levels, and intervention details, comparing participants to a waitlist group.
Main Results:
- Enrolled patients showed a significant reduction in HbA1c (-1.37 points) compared to the waitlist group (-0.16 points).
- Baseline characteristics differed, with enrolled patients being older, more female, and more likely to be African American.
- Emotional and medication issues were linked to increased HbA1c levels in a subsample of participants.
Conclusions:
- Technology-enabled peer coaching significantly improved HbA1c levels in participants versus non-participants.
- Addressing emotional stressors and medication management is key for improving outcomes.
- Multimodal digital programs with human support are effective for diabetes self-management in marginalized populations facing SDoH barriers.
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