Patient activation in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Associated factors and the role of insulin

Heidi A. van Vugt, Anne Meike Boels*, Inge de Weerdt, Eelco J.P. de Koning, Guy E.H.M. Rutten

*Corresponding author for this work

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Abstract

Aim: This study explored the relationship between insulin use and patient activation (a person’s internal readiness and capabilities to undertake health-promoting actions) in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and aimed to identify demographic, clinical and psychosocial factors involved in patient activation. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, baseline data from a Dutch nationwide study were analyzed. Patient activation was assessed with the Patient Activation Measure 13. A linear mixed model was used to take clustering into account. Results: In total, 1,189 persons were included (310 of whom were on insulin), enrolled via 47 general practices and six hospitals. Their mean Patient Activation Measure 13 score was 59±12. We found no association between insulin therapy and patient activation. In the multivariable analysis, individuals with a better health status, very good or very poor social support (vs good social support), individuals who felt they had greater control over their illness and those with a better subjective understanding of their illness showed higher patient activation. Individuals with a lower educational level and those who expected their illness to continue showed a lower activation level. Conclusion: Patient activation does not differ between individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus on insulin therapy and those on other therapies.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)73-81
Number of pages9
JournalPatient Preference and Adherence
Volume13
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2019

Keywords

  • Insulin therapy
  • Patient activation
  • Patient participation in health care
  • Provider-Patient communication
  • Psychological aspects
  • Self-management
  • Social support

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