Honors Theses
Date of Award
Spring 5-9-2025
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Public Health
First Advisor
Allison Ford-Wade
Second Advisor
Katharine Brown
Third Advisor
Catherine Moring
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
Diabetes remains a growing public health concern, particularly in underserved regions such as rural Mississippi, where barriers to healthcare access and diabetes education contribute to poor disease management. This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of 27 participants enrolled in Diabetes Solutions, a telehealth-based diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES/T) program offered by the Mississippi Diabetes Network. Using a phenomenological approach and structured interviews, the study identifies four major themes: structural benefits of the program, knowledge gained, common changes by participants, and quality of life outcomes. Participants consistently emphasized the value of personalized coaching, emotional encouragement, and practical education on nutrition and disease management. Many reported making significant lifestyle adjustments, such as improved dietary habits and increased physical activity, which contributed to greater confidence and well-being. Findings suggest that individualized telehealth coaching can play a transformative role in chronic disease self-management by enhancing participant motivation, knowledge, and overall quality of life. These results highlight the potential of telehealth interventions to bridge gaps in healthcare access and support long-term health behavior change, especially in rural and high-risk populations.
Recommended Citation
Brock, Caroline, "A Qualitative Evaluation of Diabetes Solutions Telehealth Coaching Services" (2025). Honors Theses. 3353.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3353
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