Continuity of care for children and adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT Objective to analyze continuity of care for children and adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus during the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of family caregivers and healthcare professionals. Method a descriptive and exploratory study with a qualitative approach, guided by the concept of continuity of care from the World Health Organization. It was conducted at a pediatric endocrinology outpatient clinic in the countryside of São Paulo state, involving family caregivers and professionals (physician, nutritionist, and nurse). Data collection was carried out through the application of a sociodemographic characterization tool and a semi-structured interview. The interviews were fully transcribed and analyzed through the process of inductive thematic content analysis. Results twenty-one caregivers and three healthcare professionals participated. The interview results were organized around two topics: (1) Interpersonal and longitudinal (dis)continuity, resulting in feelings of insecurity and lack of glycemic control; and (2) Management dis(continuity), with an emphasis on the lack of supplies during the pandemic period. Final considerations and implication for practice during the pandemic, the bond between children/adolescents, families, and professionals was weakened, and care demands were not always met in a timely manner, negatively impacting continuity of care.