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Boone, Joseph M.

Nursing

2013

MS

Purpose: Diabetes Mellitus type 2 is a significant national health issue, which is increasingly consuming precious resources. Prevention is a key to preserving these resources and lowering mortality and morbidity. Barriers to prevention were identified that are perceived as most significant by nurse practitioners (NP).
Data Source: A survey was used in a descriptive study of a convenience sample (n=30) from a professional nurse practitioner listserve (NP Listserve). NP listserve population was unknown.
Conclusions: Overcoming the most significant barriers are likely to have the greatest effect on improving patient outcomes and resource usage. Policies that provide access to community wellness programs, dedicated time for preventive care counseling with the health care team, and access to the healthcare system would overcome the most significant barriers.
Implications for Practice: Primary care providers who successfully overcome the barriers identified as most significant in this study may realize improved outcomes in their patient population. Further research is indicated to determine techniques to effectively motivate patients to engage in healthy behaviors in innovative ways that reduce financial costs and time consumption particularly in underserved communities.