Text Message Intervention for Latino Adults to Improve Diabetes Outcomes

Summary

This study tested an 8-week text messaging intervention for Latino adults with diabetes at a free clinic. The program, which used the CareMessage platform, sent educational and motivational messages that led to significant improvements in patients' diabetes knowledge, self-efficacy, self-care behaviors, and A1C levels.

Key Findings

• Patients experienced a significant A1C reduction of 0.86 on average, a clinically meaningful improvement.
• There were statistically significant improvements in both diabetes knowledge (SKILLD scale) and confidence in self-management (DSES scale).
• Participants reported an increase in self-care behaviors, including checking their feet more regularly and eating more servings of fruits and vegetables.

Clinical Significance

This study proves that text messaging is a highly effective and culturally appropriate way to deliver diabetes education and support to underserved Latino patients. For free clinics with limited resources, a platform like CareMessage is an invaluable tool, removing barriers to care and empowering patients to improve their health, leading to significant gains in knowledge, confidence, and clinical outcomes.

CareMessage Product Features

Outreach

Citation

Patton, S. R., Coffman, M. J., De Haven, M. J., Miller, C., & Krinner, L. M. (2022). Text Message Intervention for Latino Adults to Improve Diabetes Outcomes. Hispanic Health Care International, 20(4), 248–255.