Diabetes educators’ experience of care delivery to clients during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative descriptive study

OBJECTIVES: With social distancing and limitations on face-to-face interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic, diabetes educators had to adapt their practices by implementing telehealth appointments as the primary mode of care delivery. The aim of the study was to explore diabetes educators' experiences of engaging with people who have diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research question was: What were diabetes educators' experiences of delivering care to clients during the COVID-19 pandemic? METHODS: A qualitative descriptive methodology using semi-structured interviews was used. Individual interviews were conducted during December 2023 and March 2024 with diabetes educators who provided care in Australian hospitals or communities during the pandemic. Interviews were audio recorded, and data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Nine diabetes educators participated in interviews. Interview themes were: (1) challenges experienced in provision of diabetes care, with sub-themes including fear and avoidance behaviour, social isolation and mental health issues, and challenges faced by diabetes educators; and (2) adaptations in diabetes care, with sub-themes including transition to telehealth and face-to-face education as a supplement. CONCLUSION: This study revealed insights into challenges and opportunities of telehealth and/or remote care delivery for people with diabetes during the pandemic, highlighting the need for adaptations in diabetes care. Future practice strategies should consider adoption of a more integrated healthcare delivery model that incorporates telehealth and/or remote services.