Understanding Medication Adherence in Bhutanese Refugees With Diabetes in a Midwestern City

Abstract

Introduction:

Bhutanese refugees have a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes but are less likely to achieve medication adherence and glycemic control. The purpose of this project was to understand factors affecting diabetes medication adherence in this population.

Methodology:

This was a qualitative project using focus groups of adult Bhutanese refugees with type 2 diabetes ≥18 years old and hemoglobin A1C ≥8% and their caregivers from a family medicine clinic at the University of Kansas. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results:

A total of 23 individuals participated. Three themes emerged from data analysis: desire to engage in care but face multiple barriers, family and community support invaluable for health, and considerations for culturally contextual person-centered care. Participants provided specific recommendations to address the barriers, with emphasis on improving health literacy.

Discussion:

Integrating the identified factors can foster person-centered, culturally congruent care to improve diabetes medication adherence in Bhutanese refugees.