Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) has a high incidence rate and is a major health concern with high morbidity and mortality. Glycemic control is a key factor in the prevention of diabetic complications. Adequate patient follow-up with a primary care doctor or an endocrinologist is necessary to achieve a good glycemic control. We aim to assess the quality of follow-up in diabetic patients.
Methodology: A retrospective, observational study was conducted among type 2 diabetes patients in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The data were collected using an electronically designed self-administered questionnaire distributed through an online survey.
Results: A total of 600 type 2 DM patients responded to the questionnaire. Over 80% of the participants had elevated hemoglobin A1c (≥6.5%). Adherence to regular doctor follow-up was high (67%), and over half of the participants preferred to follow up at a diabetic center rather than primary healthcare centers. With regard to satisfaction with medical services, 44.5% rated the services very good (n = 267), 27.3% excellent (n = 164), 18.7% acceptable (n = 112), and 9.5% weak (n = 57). Participants with higher educational levels who followed up regularly at diabetes clinics had better glycemic control, lipid profiles, and kidney function tests. Participants living near diabetes clinics also had a better glycemic control. Most of the participants described themselves as a compliant. A minority described themselves as non-compliant and reported difficulty finding appointments as the main reason for their noncompliance.
Conclusion: The results showed that 84% of participants reported an inadequate glycemic control. An effort must be done to increase awareness among primary-care physicians on the importance of referring diabetic patients to appropriate specialists.

Key words: Diabetes mellitus, glycemic control, follow-up, diabetic clinic