More than A1C: Types of success among adults with type-2 diabetes participating in a technology-enabled nurse coaching intervention

Objective: Success in diabetes research and self-management is often defined as a significant decrease in glycated hemoglobin (A1C). The aim of this article is to explore different types of successes experienced by adults with type-2 diabetes participating in a health technology and nurse coaching clinical trial. Methods: A qualitative analysis was conducted using surveys and documentation from motivational interview-based coaching sessions between study nurses and intervention participants. Results: Of the 132 cases reviewed, types of success predominantly fell into five categories: 1) change in health behaviors; 2) change in mindset or awareness; 3) change in engagement with healthcare resources; 4) change in physical or emotional health; and 5) change in health indicators. Conclusion: Experiences of success in diabetes are more varied than traditional A1C-based outcome models. Our findings suggest coaching and technology can assist patients to achieve a range of successes in diabetes management through goal setting, health tracking, resolving barriers, and aligning goals with factors that impact change. Practice implications: While A1C reduction is a critical factor in decreasing risk of diabetes-related complications, when healthcare professionals focus on A1C as the main indicator of diabetes management success, important changes in individuals’ health and well-being may be overlooked or undervalued.