Date of Award

12-2023

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Health Policy and Management

First Advisor

Dr Masood Kadir

Second Advisor

Dr Shifa Habib

Third Advisor

Dr Asma Ahmed

Department

Community Health Sciences

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Effective management techniques are necessary to alleviate the problems of diabetes mellitus and enhance the quality of life for those who have the illness, as it is a worldwide health concern. In the last ten years, technology has become more and more important in the treatment of diabetes. It now includes a variety of instruments, such as wearable technology and mobile applications. Using a mixed-method study design, this research investigates patient opinions on the use of technology in diabetes care and its possible effects on health outcomes. Moreover, use the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to investigate the variables influencing the adoption of diabetes mellitus technology for improved management.
METHODS: This study combined qualitative and quantitative research approaches in a convergent parallel design. Data was gathered from the medical centers of Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) Karachi as well as the Aga Khan University Hospital. For quantitative component standardized questionnaire was utilized on a sample of 384 persons with diabetes, and 20 participants were selected for in-depth semi-structured interviews. Data collection was on demographic data, technology usage, and perceived influence on diabetes management. While the in-depth interviews focused on the experiences, challenges, and perspectives of the patients on the use of technology, Descriptive statistical analysis and manual thematic analysis were utilized, respectively, for the study of quantitative and qualitative data.
RESULTS: The results of the quantitative study showed that 96% of participants utilized technology to manage their diabetes, with 99% of patients reporting that they used traditional glucometers and just 6% employing wearable contemporary technology, such as insulin pumps and CGM. Respondents frequently mentioned improved glucose monitoring, medication adherence, and a lower risk of complications. However, the respondents also mentioned other obstacles, such price, limitation of market accessibility for technology, a shortage of technological knowledge, and concerns about data protection. The use of technology may be convenient and empower people, as evidenced by the qualitative findings. Participants felt more in charge of their diabetes care. Participants also offered suggestions for 12 technological improvements, such as individualized care plans and prompt medical expert monitoring.
CONCLUSION: This mixed-method study offers an in-depth analysis of how patients perceive the use of technology in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Even if technology has many benefits, there are still barriers regarding cost and accessibility. The need for patient-centered technological solutions that can significantly improve health outcomes for people with diabetes is highlighted by patient experiences and recommendations. The development of patient-centric technologies and healthcare policy targeted at enhancing diabetes management and overall health outcomes would benefit greatly from the insightful information provided by this study.

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1

Last Page

138

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