Use of a social media platform for a pharmacist-led diabetes support group: lessons learned [abstract] Abstract uri icon
Overview
abstract
  • Objective: The project aim was to describe the implications of the use of a social media platform in a pharmacist-led diabetes support group among African American men in a faith-based setting. Methods: A pilot project was conducted in two church communities in rural Mississippi and urban Minnesota using pharmacists to lead blended online and face-to-face diabetes support groups for African American men with diabetes. Participation included two face-to-face meetings, with online discussion via a private social media ebased discussion in between, moderated by a pharmacist. Text of social media discussion was analyzed via qualitative thematic analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants, the pharmacist leader, and faith leaders to assess perceptions and satisfaction with participating in the online discussions. Telephone interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. Results: Seven participants enrolled in the support groups. In general, participants were satisfied with the online structure of the group. They cited convenience and accessibility as favorable components, with some group members describing using their smartphones to participate in discussions. The pharmacist leader noted limited posts from participants as well as minimal peer interaction. Faith leaders perceived they would benefit from more face-to-face contact as opposed to online discussion. Faith leaders also felt the lack of face-to-face interaction led to hesitation about participation in general. Researchers as well as the pharmacist leader noted an interest in topics related to diet and exercise primarily, with limited discussion regarding medications aside from cost. Conclusions: Online support groups may be a convenient way for those who are technologically literate to connect with peers and health care professionals as a source of support. Frequent postings from leadership may help to drive conversation and stimulate interaction between participants. Appropriately trained pharmacists may be well-positioned to lead disease-specific support groups.

  • publication date
  • 2017
  • Research
    keywords
  • Diabetes
  • Ethnic Groups
  • Internet
  • Pharmacists
  • Social Media
  • Additional Document Info
    volume
  • 57
  • issue
  • 3