Barriers to equitable use of patient-reported outcomes in diabetes management

Inequity in diabetes-related health due to socioeconomic status is a recognised challenge. A patient-centred approach tailors care to individual needs, and patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures can be a valuable tool in this process. In Denmark, a new diabetes-specific PRO questionnaire has been developed to enable a systematic assessment of patients' experiences and potential barriers to care. This study examined participation in the PRO diabetes questionnaire and its relation to socioeconomic status and severe psychiatric comorbidity.

This register study included people with diabetes who were invited to complete the questionnaire. Participation status was analysed using multiple logistic regression models, incorporating variables related to socioeconomic status.

Socioeconomic status was a significant overall predictor of questionnaire participation, with non-Western immigration showing the strongest association. Additionally, Western immigration, low educational attainment and severe psychiatric comorbidity were significant predictors in subsets of the regression models.

This study highlights disparities in participation in the PRO diabetes questionnaire related to socioeconomic status and severe psychiatric comorbidity. To promote equitable access and reduce diabetes-related health inequalities, targeted efforts are needed to support vulnerable groups in engaging with patient-centred interventions.

Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen TRIAL REGISTRATION. Pactius.