Telehealth for the management of patients with type 2 diabetes in remote areas of Taiwan: a best practice implementation project

ABSTRACT Introduction: Telehealth services integrate technology with specialized medical care, and can be used to improve blood sugar management and reduce complications in patients with type 2 diabetes. Objectives: This study aimed to improve telemedicine care for patients with type 2 diabetes in public health centers in remote Indigenous communities in Taiwan through evidence-based practices. This included increasing the rates of ophthalmic examinations and enhancing the capacity of health care providers. Methods: This project followed the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework and was supported by the JBI Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System (PACES). Baseline and follow-up audits were conducted among health care providers and patients with type 2 diabetes to measure compliance with best practices and determine any improvements in practice after implementation. HbA1c levels in patients with type 2 diabetes were analyzed using paired sample t -tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The follow-up audit revealed that compliance rates for the six audit criteria improved, with Criteria 1–5 increasing from 62.5% to 87.5% or 100%. Additionally, Criterion 6 improved from 37.5% to 62.5%. The HbA1c values of the patients showed pre- and post-intervention means of 7.8291% and 7.3236%, respectively. Conclusions: Using a coaching leadership model along with JBI audit criteria to enhance the knowledge and skills of health care providers was essential for the success of the project. This approach resulted in significant advancements in caring for people with type 2 diabetes. Spanish abstract: http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A377