Subjective Experiences of Spanish-Speaking Patients Residing in the United States With Low English Proficiency Learning to Manage Their Diabetes: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Language discordance is a known barrier to diabetes care in patients with type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to better understand the subjective experiences of a group of Spanish-speaking study participants with low English proficiency who were learning to manage their diabetes using a language-concordant health coaching intervention. Methodology: This qualitative exploratory study used structured interview data to understand subjective experiences among participants. Thematic content analysis was conducted from a subset of health coaching phone transcripts ( n = 17) performed during a language-concordant health coaching intervention study. Results: Among the 17 participants included in the study, even with language-concordant coaching, participants had challenges in managing their diabetes care. Participants described internal and external factors, such as socioeconomic instability, that complicated their behavior changes and self-management abilities. Discussion: A health coaching intervention in patients with low English proficiency can help to improve health outcomes. Findings from this study can guide the development of health care services and the management of chronic diseases in diverse populations.