P-275: Factors influencing glycemic control: the role of healthcare payment modes in maintaining glycemic control to transitioning youth with t1 DM
R Nungu, F NyoniAbstract
Introduction
Effective management of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus requires consistent access to medication and services. Young adults who are transitioning into independent life face significant challenges in managing the condition. In resource-limited settings, financial barrier often complicate glycemic control, however, the specific ways in which financial mechanisms through which patients access care such as out-of-pocket payments or insurance may play a decisive role in clinical outcomes remain under-examined in transitioning populations.
Objectives
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between different modes of payment and blood sugar status among youth with diabetes type 1 that have transitioning to adults clinics
Methods
Descriptive data from 149 participants were analyzed to compare blood sugar status (controlled vs. uncontrolled) against three primary payment modes: Free, Insurance, and Out-of-pocket. Frequency distributions described the population’s financial characteristics, and multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the impact of payment methods on the odds of achieving controlled glycaemic levels.
Results
Analysis showed that 68.5% of the participants had uncontrolled blood sugar. Regarding payment, 46.3% paid out-of-pocket, 40.3% received free care, and 13.4% used insurance. Through the regression model, the relation between mode of payment and gylcemic control was statistically significant (p = 0.042). Participants relying on out-of-pocket payments had 55% higher odds of uncontrolled blood sugar compared to those with free care or using insurance.
Conclusions
Financial constraints from out-of-pocket payment is directly associated with uncontrolled blood sugar outcomes for youth transitioning from donor dependent pediatric services to independently access the adult clinics. Healthcare strategies to focus on integrating Diabetes in Universal Health Insurance and Advocating for Youth Empowerment for self-reliance to afford care.