Women’s Wellness with Type 2 Diabetes Program (WWDP): Qualitative findings from the UK and Australian feasibility study

Abstract

AimsTo undertake a qualitative study of a multimodal behavioural intervention and research protocol developed to improve wellness in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the Women’s Wellness with Type 2 Diabetes program (WWDP). MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants who completed the WWDP. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically in an iterative process. ResultsThemes developing from interviews were broadly grouped into three domains, 1) Hope for a better everyday life; 2) Reflection of the program and its contents; and 3) Impacts on health and wellbeing. Participants viewed the WWDP as a necessary and valuable approach that was crucial in helping them adopt strategies to improve their wellbeing and prevent complications associated with T2DM. Some participants expressed ambivalence towards their adherence to the program due to day-to-day life commitments. The most appreciated feature of the program were the individualised approach adopted by the consultation nurse via skype, convenient appointments, the provision of credible and factual information and the accessible website. ConclusionsThis study critically evaluated perceptions of participants towards the WWDP and provided important recommendations for improving the delivery and sustainability of the program in future. Participants perceived the program as an effective means of supporting their T2DM self-management and improving wellbeing.