A case study approach to the examination of a telephone-based health coaching intervention in facilitating behaviour change for adults with Type 2 diabetes

Aims and objectivesThis study aims to examine the effectiveness of the use of telephone empowerment-based health coaching as a cost-effective alternative to changing health behaviours of adults with Type 2 diabetes. BackgroundGuidelines regarding lifestyle management to reduce the risk of complications in diabetes include changing patterns of eating, physical activity and smoking cessation. Traditional education/behavioural methods of support for behaviour change reveal mixed and mainly short-term effects. DesignA mixed method case study approach was used (n=10). MethodsData were collected by means of physiological measurements survey and focus group interview both before and after telephone a coaching intervention. ResultsParticipants took greater responsibility for health and revealed high self-efficacy scores. Short-term benefits were seen in physiological variables at three months but these deteriorated with the cessation of the intervention indicating the need for continuous support. ConclusionTelephone coaching is a cost-effective approach to supporting health behaviour change for those with diabetes. It embraces the principles of empowerment and warrants further evaluation in supporting long-term behavioural changes. As such coaching emerges as a suitable proposition for this cohort. Relevance to clinical practiceHealth coaching has a positive impact on health behaviours for those with diabetes. Health coaching facilitates an increase in personal control of health and builds confidence in self-managing diabetes. Patients feel really supported and become motivated towards self-care.