[Perspective of patients on type-2 diabetes and their relationship with primary care health professionals: a qualitative study].
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study is to investigate the perception that people with type 2 diabetes have about the disease and about their relationship with the primary healthcare professionals.


METHODS
Qualitative research, carried out between September-November 2000.


METHODS
Primary healthcare center Barrio del Pilar from Madrid.


METHODS
15 persons with type 2 diabetes. Variables considered to design the profiles of the interviewed were: age, gender, educational level, and time since diagnosis.


METHODS
Structural sampling and open interviews.


RESULTS
Patients express having scarce information regarding the consequences of diabetes. As diabetes is symptom free represents a difficulty for being perceived as a severe disease. The most valued aspects of the relationship with health professionals are that they provide with clear and tailored information, build a trust context, support changes and take account their perspectives and living circumstances.


CONCLUSIONS
It is essential to recognize how patients understand and shape the disease. Information provided by professionals have to be tailored to patients necessities, and take place in a trusting environment. Decisions related with diabetes management have to be aligned with patients perspectives. Effective communication could be considered as a useful tool to encourage adherence and improve healthcare quality.
Bolaños
E
E
Agencia de Evaluación de Tecnologías Sanitarias. Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Madrid. España. ebolanos@isciii.es
Sarría-Santamera
A
A
D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; D006282:Health Personnel; D006801:Humans; D011320:Primary Health Care; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011787:Quality of Health Care
Perspectiva de los pacientes sobre la diabetes tipo 2 y relación con los profesionales sanitarios de atención primaria: un estudio cualitativo.