A Context-Specific Training Programme for Home Based Carers Who Care for People With Diabetes: A Necessity at Ga-Dikgale Village in South Africa

Abstract

Introduction: South Africa, like many countries, has been experiencing an increase in the prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and is amongst the top five countries with a high number of diabetes mellitus cases. Home Based Carers (HBCs) have been involved in the care of people with diabetes because of the need for efficient and cost-effective use of healthcare resources, especially in low-income countries. Previous research showed that HBCs are insufficiently trained in T2DM which leads to low-quality care but also disrespect by patients towards HBCs. The aim of this article was to develop a training program necessary for HBCs who care for People With Diabetes (PWD). Methods: Mixed method was used for the main study and both qualitative and quantitative data were collected to serve as a base for this phase. ADDIE model was used to guide the development of the training programme for HBCs. Results and Discussion: A context-specific training programme consisting of three modules was developed: (1) Basic knowledge and classification of diabetes mellitus, (2) prevention and control of diabetes and (3) management of diabetes and prevention of complications by HBCs. Development of the training programme was necessary because its availability and training of HBCs will increase disease-specific knowledge. Conclusion: This is the first training programme developed for HBCs in this region to address diabetes knowledge training gaps. The training programme might be of assistance to other researchers who may want to train HBCs in their regions.