A comprehensive patient-held record for diabetes. Part one: Initial development of the Diabetes Databank

Abstract

To develop a comprehensive patient-held diabetes record, a prototype 'databank' was designed by a multi-disciplinary group, issued to 115 patients from a community-based multi-ethnic sample (the Fremantle Diabetes Study), and evaluated after 6 months (Phase 1). The prototype was pocket-sized with colour-coded, loose-leaf sections covering diabetes and other conditions. Of 92 patients contactable at the end of Phase 1 (80% of the original sample), 84% supported the databank concept, 52% thought it aided diabetes control, and 39% felt it directly benefited management. Although blood glucose testing and recording increased (P<0.01), mean HbA1c levels were similar before and after Phase 1. Approximately 50% of Phase 1 patients took the databank to appointments. Information was recorded at two-thirds of these visits. Forgetfulness was the major reason for non-use. A comprehensive patient-held record was supported by most patients and their feedback was used to produce a modified version for larger scale assessment by patients and health care workers in Phase 2. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.