EVALUATION OF HEALTH, SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF THE CHILDREN HAVING TYPE 1 DIABETES: CHALLENGES AND SLOTUTIONS
EVALUATION OF HEALTH, SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL NEEDS OF THE CHILDREN HAVING TYPE 1 DIABETES: CHALLENGES AND SLOTUTIONS

Summary/Abstract: Objective: The overall purpose of this study is to evaluate health, educational and social needs of the children with type 1 diabetes (CwD) living in Georgia. The specific objective was to identify existing gaps in the state programs and/or system arrangements that prevent CwD having access to the necessary services. The study also aimed to develop the specific benchmark indicators to be evaluated at the end of the project implementation (supported by World Diabetes Foundation) in order to determine how the situation has changed. Methods: A combination of mixed-research methods has been applied. Initially, qualitative study – focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews were carried out. At the final stage, quantitative survey was performed with parents/caregivers of CwD. The following main topics were emerged in this study: social-economic issues of families of CwD, access to health services, management of diabetes at educational facilities, health literacy of parents and usage of innovative technologies in diabetes management. Results: Three FDGs were held with parents of the children with diabetes (CwD) and 9 in-depth interviews conducted with various stakeholders (pediatric endocrinologists, representatives of Ministry of Health, field experts). 170 parents/caregivers were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Based on the results, number of recommendations were elaborated in addressing existing problems that CwD have in Georgia with regard to geographical accessibility to health services, management of diabetes at educational facilities, as well as, alleviation of socio-economic problems of families of CwD, parents’ diabetes (health) literacy and proper management of the disease. Conclusions: Consideration of these findings and recommendations can help to alleviate some of the everyday concerns of CwD and their parents/caregivers, enabling them to attain higher standards and better quality of life. It's crucial for all stakeholders to work together to address the needs and provide comprehensive support for CwD in Georgia.

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