A qualitative assessment of the effectiveness of a group diabetic education programme using motivational interviewing in underserved communities in South Africa.

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT : This study is a qualitative assessment of a group diabetic education programme using motivational interviewing (MI) in underserved communities in South Africa.The programme was delivered by health promotion officers (HPOs) who are mid-level workers trained to deliver health education messages. The aim of the study was to explore the experience of the HPOs in the training course and in facilitating the group education sessions, and from an understanding of their perspective to contribute towards an in-depth evaluation of the educational programme. MethodsThe study made use of three focus group interviews with 14 health promoters who delivered the educational programme in 17 health centres in the Cape Town area. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data was analysed using the Framework method.ResultsTraining was perceived as successful and the use of small group education as the main teaching method mirrored the challenges involved in group diabetes education. HPOs felt confident in their ability to deliver the group education after training. HPOs reported a significant shift in communication style and skills, but felt the new approach was feasible and better than usual. Resource materials were found to be relevant, understandable and useful. HPOs felt that the number of sessions and topics should be increased and that family members should also attend. HPOs struggled with poor patient attendance and a lack of suitable space at the facilities. HPOs reported that patients who attended demonstrated improved self-efficacy and self-care.ConclusionThis qualitative assessment of HPOs perspective on a group diabetes education programme using MI showed that HPOs can deliver such a programme with the necessary confidence after adequate training. The HPO's perspective needs to be triangulated with other research projects focused on the patient outcomes and perspectives and evaluation of the HPO's fidelity and competency. This study however supports wider implementation of the educational programme.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University