People with type 2 diabetes experiences of using WhatsApp-based diabetes self-management education and support: The process evaluation

Abstract

Rational: Online Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) offers people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accessible and tailored education, utilising innovative and interactive tools such as social media to enhance engagement and outcomes. Despite the demonstrated effectiveness of social media-based DSMES in improving health outcomes, there remains a significant gap in qualitative insights regarding participants' experiences. Aim: This study aims to explore the experiences of people with T2DM who are using a newly developed WhatsApp-based DSMES. Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was adopted. Data consisted of 23 semi-structured phone interviews with people with T2DM who had received the WhatsApp-based DSMES. Interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The present study adheres to the COREQ guidelines. Results: Four themes emerged from the data: (1) acceptability of the programme, (2) flexible accessibility of the programme, (3) promoting healthy lifestyle and (4) future preferences for the programme use. Conclusion: This study explored the experiences of people with T2DM participating in a 6-week WhatsApp-based DSMES. The findings indicated that the programme was acceptable, accessible, effectively revealing necessary self-management knowledge and skills, and provided essential support from professional and peer. The study also indicated that WhatsApp-based programmes could be feasibly implemented in various populations, healthcare settings and communities to support people with T2DM globally.