As a practitioner dedicated to enhancing outcomes for children with diabetes, it's essential to stay informed about the latest research and evidence-based practices. A recent study titled What makes for a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ paediatric diabetes service from the viewpoint of children, young people, carers and clinicians? A synthesis of qualitative findings provides valuable insights into how we can improve paediatric diabetes services.
The study synthesizes qualitative data from the perspectives of children, young people, carers, and clinicians to determine what constitutes effective diabetes care. Here are some key takeaways that can help practitioners enhance their service delivery:
Key Findings from the Research
- Positive, Relationship-Based Care: Children and young people value care that is non-judgmental and relationship-based. They prefer clinicians who know them well and can engage with their social as well as physical health.
- Individualized and Collaborative Care: Children and young people seek highly individualized care that allows them to set the agenda and make choices. They appreciate when clinicians involve them in decision-making processes.
- Responsive and Coordinated Services: Parents value services that are responsive to family circumstances and well-coordinated across different healthcare providers. They seek continuity of care and seamless transitions between services.
- Holistic Approach: Clinicians recognize the importance of addressing both medical and social aspects of diabetes care. However, they often find it challenging to integrate these aspects into their practice due to time constraints and lack of training.
Practical Steps for Practitioners
To implement these findings in your practice, consider the following steps:
- Build Strong Relationships: Invest time in building ongoing, therapeutic relationships with your patients. Understand their lives beyond their medical conditions and tailor your advice accordingly.
- Empower Patients: Encourage children and young people to take an active role in their care. Allow them to set goals and make decisions about their treatment plans.
- Enhance Coordination: Work closely with other healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated approach to care. Facilitate smooth transitions between paediatric and adult services.
- Adopt a Holistic Approach: Develop skills to address both the medical and social needs of your patients. Consider additional training in areas such as mental health, social work, and patient education.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, there is always room for further research to refine and improve our practices. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in ongoing research and contribute to the body of knowledge in paediatric diabetes care.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: What makes for a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ paediatric diabetes service from the viewpoint of children, young people, carers and clinicians? A synthesis of qualitative findings.
