Time to question diabetes self‐management support for Arabic‐speaking migrants: exploring a new model of care

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Abstract
Aim: The objective of this study was to explore a new model for diabetes self‐management support in Arabic‐speaking migrants.Methods: Two qualitative methods were used: face‐to‐face semi‐structured individual interviews and focus groups. Interviews were audio‐taped, transcribed verbatim and coded thematically. Arabic‐speaking migrants with Type 2 diabetes were recruited from several primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare settings in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. These settings were purposefully selected to obtain a diverse group of participants. Data collection continued until saturation was reached. This is the first study that involved members of Arabic‐speaking communities in Australia in a formal process of consumer and public involvement to inform research design and recruitment in order to provide evidence for a new model of diabetes self‐management for Arabic‐speaking migrants.Results: No self‐management support was offered to Arabic‐speaking migrants beyond the initial diagnosis period. Significant knowledge gaps and skills deficits in all self‐management domains were evident. The provision of tailored self‐management support was considered crucial. When asked about preferred structure and delivery modalities, a strong preference was reported for face‐to‐face storytelling interactions over telephone‐ or internet‐based interventions. Gender‐specific group education and self‐management support sessions delivered by Arabic‐speaking diabetes health professionals, lay peers or social workers trained in diabetes self‐management were highly regarded.Conclusions: A patient and public involvement approach allows genuine engagement with Arabic‐speaking migrants with diabetes. There is urgent need for a new model for self‐management support among Arabic‐speaking migrants. Findings yielded new recommendations for diabetes health professionals working with these migrant communities to support behaviour change.
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  • Monash University

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