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Including support people in gestational diabetes mellitus education: Understanding providers' perspectives
Erica A Mitchell1, Patricia N E Roberson2,3, Oluwafemifola Oyedeji4
1Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA.
Summary
Educating support people alongside patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) can enhance lifestyle changes and reduce patient stress. Including support persons in GDM education improves management and potentially strengthens relationships.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent pregnancy complication linked to adverse maternal and infant outcomes.
- Effective GDM management, crucial for mitigating health risks, relies heavily on patient education and social support.
- Current GDM educational strategies often exclude crucial support persons, limiting comprehensive management approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore healthcare providers' perspectives on the role of support people in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus self-management.
- To understand healthcare providers' views on integrating support people into GDM educational programs.
- To identify potential benefits and challenges of including support persons in GDM care.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 healthcare providers (physicians, dietitians).
- Thematic analysis was employed to analyze interview data and identify recurring themes.
- Focus was placed on understanding provider insights regarding support person involvement in GDM management and education.
Main Results:
- Three primary themes emerged: knowledge, engagement, and impact.
- Healthcare providers recognized that educating support people enhances patient knowledge and engagement in lifestyle modifications.
- Involving support persons can alleviate patient burden and stress, potentially strengthening patient-support person relationships.
Conclusions:
- Including support people in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus education is vital for improving patient self-management and outcomes.
- Educational interventions should be designed to actively involve support persons, fostering a collaborative approach to GDM care.
- Addressing the role of support persons can optimize GDM management, reduce adverse health outcomes, and enhance the patient-caregiver relationship.
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