Peer training for patients with diabetes mellitus 2. A quantitative and qualitative evaluation in the Basque Country and Andalusia

• Published in: Atención primaria Vol. 48; no. 8; pp. 507 - 517
• Main Authors: Danet, Alina, Prieto Rodríguez, María Ángeles, Gamboa Moreno, Estibaliz, Ochoa de Retana Garcia, Lourdes, March Cerdà, Joan Carles
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Spanish
• Published: Spain 01.10.2016
• Subjects: Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 - therapy; Humans; Peer Group; Quality of Life; Self Care; Spain; Investigación cualitativa; Qualitative research; Formación entre iguales; Quantitative research; Diabetes mellitus; Diabetes; Peer training; Investigación cuantitativa
• ISSN: 1578-1275
• DOI: 10.1016/j.aprim.2015.10.010

To evaluate a peer training strategy for patients with type2 diabetes mellitus, developed in two training programmes in the Basque Country and Andalusia. Quantitative pre- and post-intervention and qualitative evaluation, developed between 2012 and 2014. The Basque Country and Andalusia. A total of 409 patients and trainer-patients, participating in self-management peer training programmes. Intentional sample of 44 patients for the qualitative study. Bivariate analysis and net gains for common variables used in questionnaires in the Basque Country and Andalusia: self-reported health, daily activities, physical activity, use of health services, and self-management. Content analysis of 8 focus groups with patients and trainer-patients, including: coding, categorisation, and triangulation of results. Peer training has a positive impact on physical activity, the use of health services, and self-management, with some gender differences. The peer-training strategy is considered positive, as it strengthens the patient-health provider relationship, generates group support and self-confidence, and improves the emotional management. Patients identify two areas of potential improvement: access and continuity of training strategies, and more support and recognition from health providers and institutions. The positive impact on health and quality of life that this patient peer-training provides, requires the collaboration of health professionals and institutions, which should improve the access, continuity and adaptation to patient needs and expectations.