Adult Patient Perspectives on Care for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Across the Institute of Medicine's 6 Domains of Quality

Objectives: To gather patient perspectives on quality of care provided in diabetes clinics within the framework of the Institute of Medicine's 6 domains of quality.

Methods: A qualitative study including semi-structured interviews was conducted at 5 academic hospital sites. Transcripts were analyzed using a direct content approach for themes and subthemes with saturation of themes achieved. Purposive sampling was conducted at 5 diabetes clinics (n=47 interviews).

Results: The median age of participants was 50 years with a mean duration of diabetes of 14 years; 53% of participants were male, 57% had type 2 diabetes and 81% were using insulin. Patients ranked safety as the most important Institute of Medicine domain, followed by the domains effective, patient-centred, timely, equitable and efficient. Their expectations spanned the first 4 Institute of Medicine domains. They expressed a desire for a knowledgeable, caring, available and communicative team that assist with self-management and overall control of diabetes (effective, patient-centred and timely). They wanted to avoid diabetes complications, including hypoglycemia (safe and effective). They wanted to share in care planning and achieve personalized goals (patient-centred). Efficient and equitable care were not prioritized as highly, but many patients expressed concerns about the costs of medications and insulin supplies.

Conclusion: Patients' views of high-quality diabetes care include all 6 domains of quality with a stronger emphasis on safe, effective and patient-centred care. Future evaluation of diabetes programs should incorporate a comprehensive and patient-informed approach to consideration of what constitutes high-quality care.