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Development and pilot testing of an empowerment-based educational app for complementary therapies in diabetes: a
Hsiao-Yun Chang1, Yu-Yao Huang2
1Department of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology and Research Fellow (joint appointment), Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances
|June 11, 2025
Summary
An educational app empowers diabetes patients to safely integrate complementary therapies with conventional medicine. This tool enhances understanding of benefits and risks, supporting informed decisions for better diabetes care.
Area of Science:
- Digital Health
- Patient Education
- Complementary Medicine
Background:
- Diabetes management often involves complementary therapies alongside conventional treatments.
- Patients frequently lack knowledge regarding the safe integration of these therapies.
- Empowering patients can improve understanding of benefits/risks and enhance diabetes care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and pilot test an educational application focused on complementary therapies for diabetes management.
- The app aims to empower patients in making informed decisions about integrating complementary therapies.
Main Methods:
- A modified Delphi method involving 23 experts and 6 patients with diabetes was used.
- The app was designed based on the WHO's empowerment framework, incorporating self-control, cognitive, psychological, and behavioral strategies.
- Content validity and pilot testing assessed the app's validity, functionality, and usability.
Main Results:
- The app demonstrated acceptable face (0.88) and content validity (indices >80%).
- Pilot testing confirmed user-friendliness, secure authentication, and reliable data storage.
- Participants showed a significant 9.02% increase in understanding complementary therapy benefits and risks.
Conclusions:
- The developed app serves as an effective educational tool for empowering patients with diabetes.
- It enhances patients' ability to safely integrate complementary therapies with conventional medical treatments.
- This empowers informed decision-making and improves overall diabetes self-management.
