NEW research has found limited evidence for an association between health literacy and medication adherence among ethnic minority adults living with type 2 diabetes (T2D).
The findings highlight a need for more targeted training for health professionals who provide care for people with T2D.
The research team, led by Western Sydney University, reviewed seven international studies investigating reduced medication adherence and lower levels of health literacy.
Only one study found a significant association between the two factors, and to date, none have been based in Australia.
Lead author Jinal Parmar, from Western Sydney University's School of Health Sciences, said the review revealed the need for more studies to address disparities in cultural and linguistic considerations of T2D patients from ethnic minorities in Western Sydney, especially given the higher prevalence of T2D relative to other parts of the city.
"People from ethnic minorities face significant barriers in accessing diabetes care, including facing cultural and language barriers, and low health literacy.
"There is a need for more targeted strategies to improve access and health outcomes for these communities," said Parmar.
Senior author Associate Professor Amit Arora said that one of the key recommendations of the review is that health services and policy makers need to consider cultural safety training for healthcare professionals providing care to people with T2D.
"Health professionals should be using techniques such as teach-back and asking patients to repeat information in their own words, visual aids, and using simple language to confirm understanding and address any gaps," said Professor Arora.
"By ensuring ethnic minority groups understand their diabetes management instructions, patients are empowered in making informed decisions and remain in control of their treatment."
Endocrinologist Dr Tien-Ming Hng, who works with culturally diverse communities in clinics in Western Sydney, knows the importance of addressing the challenges of medication adherence and emphasised the need for research-driven insights to improve patient outcomes.
"Multiple medications are sometimes needed to achieve treatment goals, and regular use is key to their success," said Dr Hng.
"There are potentially many factors that can influence medication use within specific ethnic groups, and studies that inform us of these challenges will help us treat our patients better."
Read the full paper HERE. KB
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