Abstract
Current literature poorly defines the specific ways trained peer supporter influences health care behaviors. This study attempts to identify the key defining features of a culturally appropriate peer support program for African Americans with type 2 diabetes by exploring participants experiences related to assistance with daily disease management, emotional support, linkage to clinic care and community resources, and ongoing support. We used a qualitative interpretive descriptive approach to collect data through semi-structured interviews from 20 African Americans with type 2 diabetes participating in a peer support program. Interviews captured participants' background and experiences with the peer supporter and evaluated the cultural appropriateness of the peer support intervention. Data was coded deductively using predetermined codes found in the peer support literature and inductively to identify emergent themes. Three specific themes were identified namely [1] healthy behaviors [2] frequent telephonic contact and [3] emotional support as a by-product of other support activities. These findings mirror the broader literature on what constitutes culturally appropriate peer support programs for ethnic minorities. We recommend the inclusion of culturally appropriate peer support program to complement diabetes management as targeted plan for improvement in clinical care and ultimately, diabetes outcome.
Highlights
Diabetes affects over 29 million Americans (9.3% of the population) and this figure is projected to increase to 35 million in 2040 [1]
Since African Americans suffer disproportionately from the morbidity and mortality resulting from poorly managed T2DM, we employed an interpretive descriptive approach to elucidate the experience of African Americans in a culturally appropriate peer support program to enhance diabetes self-management with the aim of reducing emergency department visits, and diabetes related complications
We used a qualitative descriptive approach to explore the experiences of African Americans in a peer support program for people with T2DM
Summary
Diabetes affects over 29 million Americans (9.3% of the population) and this figure is projected to increase to 35 million in 2040 [1]. African Americans suffer a widening gap in health disparities and are reported to experience more barriers to diabetes self-management than non-Hispanic Whites [5]. The four core functions that guide the provision of peer support services include: Assistance in Daily Disease Management where peer supporters use their own experiences in helping people figure out how to manage their disease in the context of their daily lives. Since African Americans suffer disproportionately from the morbidity and mortality resulting from poorly managed T2DM, we employed an interpretive descriptive approach to elucidate the experience of African Americans in a culturally appropriate peer support program to enhance diabetes self-management with the aim of reducing emergency department visits, and diabetes related complications. The central research aim was to define the key features of a successful culturally appropriate peer support program for African Americans with type 2 diabetes
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
