Perceptions, attitudes and beliefs among allied healthcare professionals managing people with Type 2 diabetes: an international cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Introduction: Many individuals with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) do not achieve their glycaemic targets, and allied healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a central role in their care. Methods: Allied HCPs who advise/treat people with T2DM completed a cross-sectional, Internet-based survey to examine clinical practice patterns and identify barriers to achieving glycaemic control. Responses from 280 allied HCPs from 51 countries were analysed. Results: Participants were mostly from North America (46%), Australia/Oceania (17%) and Europe (16%). Many (65%) respondents reported that ≤60% of their patients achieve their HbA1c targets. Lack of motivation by HCPs and patients, as well as poor patient adherence to therapy, were identified as major barriers to achieving glycaemic targets. Strategies most frequently selected by HCPs to improve glycaemic outcomes were patient-focused. Conclusions: Greater awareness among HCPs of their role in supporting and motivating patients to self-manage their condition may improve rates of glycaemic control among individuals with T2DM.