A phased online support program improves self-efficacy and reduces distress in type 2 diabetes patients using mixed methods design.

Traditional interventions are largely offline, lack continuous support, and primarily focus on improving knowledge. This study aimed to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of a phased online support program for patients with diabetes. A mixed-methods design with convenience sampling was adopted in this study. A total of 27 patients with diabetes were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Hainan Province. The patients underwent a phased online support program. Feasibility was assessed based on recruitment, participation, and retention rates. After the patients received the intervention at the 9-month follow-up, acceptability was assessed using one-on-one semi-structured interviews. The preliminary effects of the program were assessed by observing changes in clinical and psychosocial indicators. A designated researcher collected all the data from January 2022 to March 2023. The recruitment, participation, and retention rates were all over 80%. Participants perceived positive changes after participating in the program; they considered the program to be highly acceptable and expressed eagerness for ongoing support. Significant improvements were observed in HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, blood pressure, blood lipid profile, weight, body mass index, self-efficacy, diabetes distress, diabetes knowledge, self-management behavior, and chronic disease resource utilization at the 12-month follow-up. The phased online support program for patients with diabetes is feasible and acceptable, with promising preliminary results.The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2400082136, http//www.chictr.org.cn/, 21/3/2024).