The Use of Digital Telehealth for the Self-Management of Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Hinds County, Mississippi: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Self-management is crucial for the management of type 2 diabetes. Remote patient monitoring via telehealth may enhance self-management and control of diabetes. A three-arm randomized controlled trial involving 90 participants randomized into two intervention groups and one control group was conducted. The purpose of this study is to test whether the use of a mobile phone-based app, with or without telehealth counseling, could improve HbA1c level, self-management, and health-related quality of life compared with usual care. The two intervention groups received a mobile phone with a self-management app. One intervention group additionally received telehealth counseling delivered by a diabetes specialist nurse for 6 months. All three groups continued to receive the usual care from their provider. The primary outcome is a reduction in HbA1c level. Secondary outcomes are self-management, health-related quality of life, depressive symptoms, and lifestyle changes. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate (descriptive, t-test, MANOVA) methods. There was a significant reduction in the HbA1c levels of participants after 3 and 6 months. There was also a significant difference in HbA1c levels between the control and two intervention groups. Pre- and posteducation surveys for intervention group 2 showed an improvement in the understanding of type 2 diabetes risk factors, diabetes, and self-management. Digital telehealth demonstrated considerable potential for reducing blood sugar levels, enhancing self-management, and improving the quality of life of type 2 diabetic patients. The addition of telehealth education and counseling further improved the positive outcomes.