P-500: Psychosocial support networks and prevention of diabetic ketoacidosis hospitalizations in vulnerable children and adolescents with diabetes in a patagonian referral hospital
F Grabois, L Moglia, F Podlesh, C Oviedo, A Alecha, D Musante, L Leguizamon, F gonzalezAbstract
Introduction
Diabetic ketoacidosis remains one of the leading causes of preventable hospitalization in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, particularly in socially vulnerable populations. In Patagonia, geographic distance, socioeconomic disparities, and limited access to specialized care increase the psychosocial burden of diabetes management. At our tertiary pediatric hospital in southern Argentina, an interdisciplinary support network involving schools, social work, and psychology was developed to identify psychosocial risk factors early and strengthen diabetes care in the community.
Objectives
To describe the impact of a hospital-based psychosocial support network on the prevention of DKA-related hospitalizations among vulnerable pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes.
Methods
A descriptive observational study was conducted between January 2025 and March 2026 in a public pediatric hospital in Patagonia. Children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes considered at high social risk were included. Vulnerability criteria included low family income, unstable caregiving, school absenteeism, mental health difficulties, and barriers to treatment access. The intervention included structured psychosocial screening, school-based diabetes education, coordination with social services, psychological follow-up, and direct communication between families and the diabetes team.
Results
Twenty four patients were enrolled. Psychological intervention identified diabetes distress, family burnout, and social isolation as the most frequent barriers to metabolic stability.
Conclusions
An interdisciplinary psychosocial support network linking hospital, school, social services, and mental health professionals may reduce preventable DKA admissions in vulnerable youth with type 1 diabetes. Addressing psychosocial determinants of care is essential to improving clinical outcomes in geographically dispersed regions such as Patagonia.