Access to Diabetes Self-Management Education in a Rural State: A GIS Analysis

Abstract

Background: Diabetes is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in the state of Alabama.Research has demonstrated geographical disparities in diabetes outcomes and access to healthcare services. Supporting behavior changes through diabetes self-management education (DSME) has been shown to improve diabetes outcomes. Purpose: The overall purpose of this study was to empirically measure and display spatial patterns of potential geographical accessibility of the Alabama populations to DSME services. Geographic information systems (GIS) technology was used to empirically and visually examine spatial