Challenges Faced By Patients in Undergoing Diabetes Care and Management in the Philippines during the Course of the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease defined by high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia), which is still a public health concern in the Philippines. The COVID-19 virus, caused by the SARS-COV-2 which was first reported in China has rapidly spread in almost all countries around the world, becoming a major global health issue. Patients with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, are mostly likely to develop the severe form of COVID-19. The COVID-19 outbreak caused people to feel fear and worry, therefore, this research study focused on the challenges faced by patients in undergoing diabetes care and management amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The research study was conducted through an online survey questionnaire that was administered to three hundred eighty (380) diabetic patients aged 18-59 years old, living in NCR during the COVID-19 pandemic. The patients’ status of diabetes care and management during the COVID-19 pandemic, challenges faced by these patients on their diabetes care and management during the pandemic, and the relationship between the patients’ profile and challenges faced, and their status on diabetes care and management were considered as variables. All data gathered were analyzed through Microsoft Excel using frequency and percentage. The results showed that there are more female diabetic patients than male. Most of the patients were reported to be employed and working from home. Low gross monthly income was reported among the patients as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unstable blood glucose readings and ineffective status of diabetes care and management were reported by most of the patients. Fear of contamination, supply issues, and not being able to leave the house because of high risk were the top three (3) challenges faced by the patients. Based on the findings, the profile and challenges faced by the patients have a significant effect on the patients’ status on diabetes care and management. In conclusion, the patients faced challenges accessing diabetes care and management during the COVID-19 pandemic which led to poor or ineffective diabetes management. Expanding the study to other regions of the country is recommended since this study is only focused in NCR. It is also recommended that the government focuses on the innovation, virtualization, and digitalization in healthcare to address gaps such as access of patients to health services. Moreover, it is suggested that the incidence of diabetes be reduced through interventions that promote people’s health and quality of life.