Patient priorities and needs for diabetes care among urban African American adults

PURPOSE This study was conducted to determine diabetes care priorities and needs in a group of urban African American adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. METHODS One hundred nineteen African American adults with type 2 diabetes, aged 35 to 75, received behavioral/educational interventions from a nurse case mana ger, a community health worker, or both. Priorities and needs were assessed during 3 intervention visits. RESULTS The most frequently reported priorities for diabetes care were glucose self -monitoring (61%), medication adherence (47%), and healthy eating (36%). Th e most frequently addressed diabetes needs were glucose self-monitoring and medication adherence. Most of the intervention visits (77%) addressed non- diabetes-related health issues such as cardiovascular disease (36%) and soc ial issues such as family responsibilities (30%). CONCLUSIONS Participants' self-reported priorities for diabetes care directly reflected the diabetes needs addressed. Needs beyond the focus of traditional diabet es care (social issues and insurance) are important to address in urban Afr ican Americans with type 2 diabetes. Interventions designed to address comp rehensive health and social needs should be included in treatment and educa tional plans for this population.