Patients’ Perspectives on Their Use of Diabetes Education Centres in Peel-Halton Region in Southern Ontario

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore patient utilization of and barriers to attending diabetes education centres (DEC) in Southern Ontario, Canada. MethodsInternet questionnaires were completed by 221 individuals living with diabetes in the Peel-Halton region of Ontario. ResultsApproximately 67% of respondents attended a DEC. The majority reported gaining a better understanding and ability to manage diabetes. Regular DEC follow-up was relatively low. Reasons for finding DEC visits unhelpful include a lack of individualized or tailored services, insensitive staff, and perceiving no benefits from attending. Common reasons for individuals never attending a DEC include diabetes education being provided by primary care physicians (PCPs), lack of DEC promotion from PCPs, patients' perception of knowledge and confidence in managing the disease, and inconvenient DEC location and program scheduling. ConclusionsDEC utilization appears to improve patients' perception of their ability to manage diabetes. Creating better partnerships between PCPs and DECs could improve referrals to and patient participation at DECs. Delivering more accessible and patient-oriented services could improve patient retention at DECs.