Attaining Comprehensive Diabetes Care in Ghana: Insights of Policymakers and Diabetes Experts

Abstract Background: This study aimed to gather the perspectives of diabetes experts and policymakers to identify gaps, unmet needs, and recommendations for achieving comprehensive diabetes care in Ghana. Materials and Methods: Twenty diabetes experts and one policymaker involved in diabetes care were purposively selected. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that addressed areas essential for comprehensive diabetes care. Suggestions for improved diabetes care were also sought. Data were analyzed using STATA version 16.1. Results: The diabetes experts were drawn from three regions in Ghana, with the Greater Accra Region contributing 16 (80%), while 13 of them (65%) practiced in public health facilities, and 7 (35%) practiced either in a private or quasi-government health facility. There were significant challenges with supporting personnel (such as trained diabetes educators), foot care services, and some laboratory investigations (urine microalbumin). Access to important equipment, such as ophthalmoscopes, monofilaments, and biothesiometers, was a challenge in most of their practices. The cost and access to analog insulin, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1, and sodium-glucose transporter-2 inhibitors were a challenge in some instances. Most experts did not report a problem with access to dieticians, human insulin, and medications such as metformin, sulfonylureas, and thiazolidinediones. In the practices of the experts, most patients relied on a combination of the National Health Insurance Scheme and out-of-pocket payments to cover the cost of their care. Conclusions: There must be a renewed and collaborative effort to improve and attain a satisfactory level of comprehensive diabetes care.