Effectiveness of Diabetes School Education Program and Blood Sugar Monitoring on Glycemic Control among Diabetic Patients with Poor Glycemic Control at Huai Phueng Hospital, Huai Phueng District, Kalasin Province

Abstract

            This study was a quasi-experimental study with a one-group pretest-posttest design. The objective was to examine the effectiveness of a diabetes school education program on HbA1c levels, knowledge, self-care behaviors, and satisfaction among diabetic patients with poor glycemic control. The sample consisted of 30 type 2 diabetes patients with HbA1c levels greater than 7%. The program comprised six educational sessions, self-care skills training, manual usage, and continuous follow-up over 12 weeks. Data were collected at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at 3-month follow-up. Data analysis was performed using paired t-test statistics.

            The research findings showed that the majority of patients were female (86.7%), with a mean age of 60.7 years, primary education level (80%), and agricultural occupation (56.7%). After participating in the program, HbA1c levels decreased significantly from 7.53% to 7.11% (p = 0.001). The proportion of patients achieving target glycemic control increased from 39.3% to 57.1%. Knowledge scores increased significantly from 12.2 to 17.5 points (p < 0.001). Self-care behavior scores improved significantly from 2.79 to 3.94 points (p < 0.001). Satisfaction with the program was at the highest level. The diabetes school education program was effective in significantly reducing HbA1c levels and improving knowledge and self-care behaviors among diabetic patients. This program can serve as a model for developing diabetes care systems in other healthcare facilities.