European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

EFFECT OF ELECTRONIC MODE OF PATIENT COUNSELING ON IMPROVING THE OUTCOME OF TREATMENT FOR DIABETES MELLITUS IN RURAL POPULATION OF KERALA

Anoop K. R.* and Dr. Kiron S. S.

ABSTRACT

Background: Diabetes mellitus has been specifically identified as having high blood glucose levels, mainly due to complete or partial lack of the hormone called insulin in the body. It can cause serious damage to vital organs from time to time. Control of diabetes includes education in peer care and self-care. In addition to traditional patient care treatments, self-care education helps the individual achieve a better quality of life in their critical state. In this modern era electronic media is gaining more importance and popularity. Hence this study aims to explore the possibility of electronic media in patient counseling. Aim: To study the effect of electronic mode of patient counseling on improving the outcome of treatment for type 2 Diabetes mellitus in rural population. Material and Methods: This study was conducted in rural areas of Thrissur district which is the central part of Kerala. This district is said to have mixed culture of southern and northern Kerala making it unique population for this study. Appropriate questionnaires were prepared and direct survey was conducted on the selected candidates. Candidates were selected based on pre-determined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 252 candidates were shortlisted and divided into two groups, one was identified as the control group and the other as intervention group. Intervention group was made available with information only through electronic media which in this study is mobile phones. Well experienced pharmacist was engaged in preparing the material also with the help of an IT personal. Direct calling, forwarding of posters, reminder forwards, audios and videos were made use for patient counseling. Control group was just surveyed by non qualified person. Two standardized questionnaires called MDQOL -37 and KAP questionnaires were used for this purpose. The data was analyzed using ANOVA software.Conclusion: The results of the study was sufficient to understand that electronic based methods of patient counseling can be effective in treatment of diseases like diabetes mellitus. The overall quality of life of the patients improved commendably which ensures lot of scope for the newer counseling techniques. Moreover these techniques are considered safe and effective in pandemic situations were social distancing has be practiced.

Keywords: Diabetes, Quality of life, Patient counseling by electronic mode.