Impact of a Text Messaging Intervention as an In-Between Support to Diabetes Group Visits in Federally Qualified Health Centers: Cluster Randomized Controlled Study

Summary

Patients with diabetes at FQHCs participated in group visits and a CareMessage texting program. Patients who actively engaged with CareMessage showed significant improvements in diabetes knowledge, self-care, and quality of life. The program proved to be an effective, low-burden way to support vulnerable patients between appointments.

Key Findings

• Patients who actively engaged with the CareMessage program significantly improved their diabetes knowledge, foot care practices, and exercise levels compared to less engaged patients.
• Highly engaged participants also experienced better social support, reduced diabetes-related stress, and a higher quality of life after six months.
• While clinical markers like HbA1c did not change significantly in this complex population, the improvements in self-care behaviors and well-being were substantial.
• Staff reported that CareMessage was a “helpful,” “quick,” and “effective way to communicate” with patients, keeping them engaged even if they missed group visits.

Clinical Significance

This study shows that supplementing group visits with a CareMessage program is a powerful strategy for FQHCs. For patients managing complex, long-term diabetes, CareMessage effectively improves critical patient-reported outcomes like self-care, knowledge, and well-being. This demonstrates how scalable technology can bridge gaps in care, support vulnerable populations, and keep them connected and encouraged between provider visits.

CareMessage Product Features

Programs

Citation

Yan, A. Z., Staab, E. M., Nuñez, D., Zhu, M., Wan, W., Schaefer, C. T., Campbell, A., Quinn, M. T., & Baig, A. A. (2024). Impact of a Text Messaging Intervention as an In-Between Support to Diabetes Group Visits in Federally Qualified Health Centers: Cluster Randomized Controlled Study. JMIR Diabetes, 9, e55473.