Case Study and Evaluation of a Pre-Diabetes Self-Management Education Program

Author

Stacey L. Ruholl, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleFollow

Date of Award

12-1-2012

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Health Education

First Advisor

Ogletree, Roberta

Abstract

The primary purpose of this research study was to provide an in-depth analysis of a pre-diabetes self-management education program located in a Midwest health care center and to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. The study was designed to answer the following research questions: (1) How was the DSME program developed and how is it being implemented? (2) To what extent do the program's elements align with the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education? (3) What factors affect completion of the entire program by participants? (4) What factors affect non-completion of the entire program by participants? (5) How do participants perceive their experience in the program? (6) What are the immediate effects of the program in terms of weight loss and exercise adoption? (7) What are the long-term effects of the program in terms of maintenance of weight loss, maintenance of physical activity, and prevention of T2D? (8) To what extent are the AADE Standards for Outcome Measurement of DSME being met? Effective DSME programs are typically those that meet nationally recognized guidelines and outcomes measures. Data were collected to determine the effectiveness of this program using the following methods: interviews, document reviews, observations, and a survey. Descriptive statistics in the form of frequencies and percentages were used to describe the results. Analysis of the qualitative data was conducted and themes emerged. Recommendations were provided as to how the program can be improved upon to make it more effective.