%0 Journal Article
%T Understanding Treatment Gaps in Type 2 Diabetes: A Qualitative Study on Why Patients Stop and Restart Care
%A Afreen Jabin
%A Alex Guthrie
%J International Journal of Social and Psychological Aspects of Healthcare
%@ 3108-4818
%D 2025
%V 5
%N 1
%R 10.51847/K4r85uzgEQ
%P 24-34
%X Treatment interruptions and resumptions are common among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D); however, the factors that trigger resumption based on the reasons for interruption are not well understood. This study explored the patterns underlying treatment interruption and subsequent resumption. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 T2D patients who had previously interrupted treatment. Their narratives were analyzed to identify recurring themes and patterns. Four distinct patterns emerged: Economic rationality – Financial constraints led to treatment interruption, while resumption occurred through affordable check-ups and patients’ revised strategies for managing medical expenses within limited household budgets; Proactive information seeking – Doubts about treatment efficacy prompted interruptions, which were followed by resumption through patients’ active reassessment of health risks and self-directed information gathering; Health professional–patient relationship – Conflicts with healthcare providers caused interruptions, but trust-building encounters encouraged patients to resume treatment’ Sustained community health partnerships – Personal challenges led to treatment gaps, yet supportive, non-coercive relationships with community health professionals promoted resumption through reinforced patient commitment. These findings underscore the importance of personalized medical support and the development of local policies that account for patients’ subjective experiences of treatment interruption and resumption. Understanding these patterns can inform resource allocation and enhance community-based diabetes care interventions.
%U https://smerpub.com/article/understanding-treatment-gaps-in-type-2-diabetes-a-qualitative-study-on-why-patients-stop-and-restar-jzoqfjzohw9y1ta