Improved Diabetes Care Management Through a Text-Message Intervention for Low-Income Patients: Mixed-Methods Pilot Study

Summary

This study tested a CareMessage text-messaging program for low-income, primarily Latino patients with diabetes. The program provided crucial emotional and practical support, and patients who were more engaged showed a clinically meaningful improvement in their HbA1c levels, demonstrating the power of this intervention.

Key Findings

• Patients who were highly engaged with the program experienced a significant 2.2-point reduction in their HbA1c levels compared to less-engaged patients.
• Patients reported feeling supported, with one saying, “I knew that someone was worrying about my health.”
• The program provided helpful reminders and new information, leading patients to set goals and change behaviors related to their diet, medication, and exercise.

Clinical Significance

This research proves that a culturally-tailored text-messaging program like CareMessage can lead to life-changing clinical outcomes. For low-income patients who often face barriers to care, consistent support through text messaging provides the encouragement and knowledge needed to improve self-management and significantly lower their HbA1c.

CareMessage Product Features

Programs

Citation

Watterson, J. L., Rodriguez, H. P., Shortell, S. M., & Aguilera, A. (2018). Improved Diabetes Care Management Through a Text-Message Intervention for Low-Income Patients: Mixed-Methods Pilot Study. JMIR Diabetes, 3(4), e15.