Tailoring Educational Content for T2DM Patients

A Qualitative Study on Preferences for Interactive Multimedia Applications

Abstract

Background. The development of interactive multimedia-based applications has become increasingly important in providing effective health education to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients. Understanding the educational content required for such applications from local patients’ perspectives is crucial for designing a user-friendly and impactful tool for T2DM management.

Objective. This study aims to investigate patients’ views and preferences on the educational content and features of an interactive multimedia-based application for T2DM patients.

Methodology. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were carried out with a sample of T2DM outpatients (n = 16) at a tertiary referral university hospital in Kuala Lumpur between October 2022 and January 2023. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis.

Result. The majority of participants had been diagnosed with T2DM for less than ten years. The thematic analysis identified several key aspects related to the educational content required for development of a multimedia-based application. These include preference for educational materials, essential contents and interactive features. The participants also proposed a discussion area within such applications that would allow them to communicate and receive immediate advice from healthcare professionals, thus eliminating the need for frequent hospital visits.

Conclusion. The findings of this study highlight the significance of interactive multimedia-based applications in providing health education for T2DM patients. The identified essential content areas from the patients’ perspectives can inform the development of effective tailored educational materials for patient’s benefit.