Access to Diabetes Self-Management Education in a Rural State: A GIS Analysis

• DOI: 10.14574/ojrnhc.v19i2.575
• Publication Date: 2019-12-06T22:24:57Z
• Authors: Barbara Ann Graves; Grace Liu; Jane Kunberger; Laura Canaday; Brooke Bambis
• Keywords: Equity

Background: Diabetes is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in the state Alabama. Research has demonstrated geographical disparities diabetes outcomes access to healthcare service. Supporting behavior changes through self-management education (DSME) been shown improve outcomes.Purpose: The overall purpose this study was empirically measure display spatial patterns potential accessibility Alabama populations DSME services. Geographic information systems (GIS) technology used visually examine relationships between variables related specific aims were to: (1) Determine percentage population with services within 30 60minutes travel time; (2) by age, sex, race, rural status, SES.Method: A retrospective cohort, descriptive quantitative DESIGN used. GIS U.S. Census Bureau data provided visual identification empirical measures distance access.Findings: analysis percentages Alabama's total at 60-minute time maps allowed visualization DES service coverage areas. Analysis showed that 66.3% 94.1% location, respectively. While SES status had minor effect on accessibility, most noticeable disparity equity for those living setting. Only 44.1% individuals settings 30-minute facility, whereas 81.7% an urban setting access. DISCUSSION: Timely best practice essential reducing disparities. Social justice requires reversal created social inequalities better distribution resources. Healthcare policy can change locations increase decrease mortality.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v19i2.575