Exploring Patient Experiences And Perspectives With Telehealth For The Management Of Type 2 Diabetes: A Qualitative Systematic Review

Abstract

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease that requires consistent monitoring and active patient engagement for effective management. Incorporating telehealth in T2DM care promises to improve patient outcomes by facilitating remote monitoring, timely interventions, and bolstering self- management practices. This qualitative systematic review aims to investigate the experiences and perspectives of adult T2DM patients utilizing telehealth as a component of their disease management. Objective To identify and Exploring the experiences and perceptions of adult individuals with T2DM in utilizing telehealth for the management of their condition. Methods A qualitative systematic review was conducted using the JBI framework. Studies published within ten years were included. The search strategy was implemented across four major databases: Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Additionally, Google Scholar and grey literature were searched to ensure comprehensive coverage . Data were synthesized using a narrative synthesis approach to identify key themes and insights. Result A review encompassing fourteen qualitative research studies on T2DM patients utilizing telehealth technologies was conducted. The analysis revealed several prominent themes: Technology Integration and Usability, User Experience and Empowerment, and Health Outcomes and Quality of Life. The study findings indicated enhanced patient engagement and empowerment through real-time monitoring, improved accessibility and convenience of care, and personalized disease management. Conclusion The implementation of telehealth holds promising prospects in enhancing the management of T2DM by fostering patient engagement, accessibility, and self-care. Patients commonly expressed a sense of greater control over their health through telehealth, facilitating the adoption of healthier routines. Nevertheless, qualitative evidence indicates that while telehealth presents numerous advantages, it might be regarded as a supplementary rather than a substitute for in-person care, as patients continue to place considerable value on direct interactions with healthcare professionals.