Exploring how social networks affect diabetes education and support usage

Understanding Utilization of Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Using Social Network Analysis

NIH-funded research Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis · NIH-11174463

This study looks at why many people with diabetes aren't taking advantage of diabetes education and support programs, and it explores how teamwork among healthcare providers can help more patients get involved in these valuable resources.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Little Rock, United States)
Project IDNIH-11174463 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the underutilization of Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) among patients with diabetes, particularly focusing on how provider collaboration influences patient participation. By analyzing health insurance claims data, the study aims to identify patterns in provider relationships and their impact on DSMES enrollment. The research employs social network analysis to create a model that connects patients and healthcare providers, shedding light on systemic barriers to accessing diabetes education. The goal is to enhance understanding of how to improve DSMES utilization for better patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who have been diagnosed with diabetes and are seeking education and support for self-management.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with diabetes or those who are younger than 65 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to increased participation in diabetes education programs, ultimately improving health outcomes for patients with diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding provider networks can enhance patient engagement in healthcare programs, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Little Rock, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetes
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.