Access to primary health care and changes in quality of life of patients with type 2 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hungary.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to reveal the barriers to accessing primary care among diabetic patients, and the changes in their quality of life and self-management during the COVID-19 epidemic. We conducted cross-sectional semi-structured qualitative research with 15 people diagnosed 4 years ago at least with type 2 diabetes in August 2022. The average age of participants was 62.3 years, 66.6% were male and 33.3% were female. A criterion sampling method was used. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated, and analysed in thematic analysis. Transcripts were coded and grouped, then themes and sub-themes were formed. We have identified 8 themes and 10 subthemes. The main themes were as follows: Communication with the GP, access to GP referral, fear of the epidemic, lack of personal meetings, worry about missing treatments, changes in physical activity, obstacles in blood sugar measurement, and changes in blood sugar measurement habits. All the patients communicated only by phone or messenger with the GP, nurse, or assistant during the epidemic. Patients contacted the GP only to have their medication prescribed. Some respondents thought it necessary to have face-to-face consultations. Some respondents were initially worried about the impact of the epidemic and lockdown on their lives and illness. The physical activity of the patients mainly did not change during the lockdown. While some diabetic patients said that they had measured their blood glucose more frequently at the beginning of the epidemic, some respondents irregularly measured their blood glucose since the first wave. General practitioners should provide more attention and regular follow-ups for those diabetic patients who changed their lifestyle and self-management during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent development of complications.