Using FLO text-messages to enhance health behaviours and self-management of long-term conditions in South-Asian patients

Abstract

Objectives: Cultural and communication differences faced by South-Asian (SA) ethnic minority groups have led to challenges in the delivery of health care and complex management of long-term conditions (LTCs). We aim to explore the use of text-messaging in SA communities, through the Florence (FLO) health messaging system utilised within U.K. health sectors, to enhance positive health behaviours and self-management. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used for this study involving two phases. Phase 1 includes the administration of the patient activation measure to assess SA patient level of skills, knowledge, and confidence to self-manage their LTC; whilst in Phase 2 semi-structured interviews were conducted, exploring the experiences of users and non-users of FLO text messaging to promote self-management behaviours. Findings: Forty participants (Florence users (n = 20) and non-users (n = 20)) completed the patient activation survey once after using FLO, and took part in interviews. Differences were noted to exist between the two groups (p