The process of adapting an innovative program for the self-management of type 2 diabetes in Aboriginal peoples: guided self-determination in healthcare settings

OBJECTIVES: The Guided Self-Determination (GSD) method is an evidence-based life-skill intervention program that involves self-directed and shared decision-making between people with an ongoing health issue and GSD-trained healthcare practitioners. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a significant contributor to disease burden for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This paper describes the process of developing a co-designed, culturally tailored GSD program to improve diabetes self-management and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. METHODS: Two co-design workshops were held with Aboriginal peoples with lived experience of T2D, in conjunction with healthcare practitioners. RESULTS: The participants' feedback highlighted the need for plain language and pictorials; using respectful Indigenous language terms; the importance of emphasising successful diabetes management; the inclusion of mind mapping; and the use of strengths-based yarning as the foundation of the program. CONCLUSIONS: The importance of tailoring communication methods to fit the cultural and linguistic context for Aboriginal people was integral to participants. Using less medical and technical language and including diagrams, drawings or symbols ensured that the information was accessible. By aligning language and communication styles with that of Aboriginal people, healthcare practitioners can help ensure that their messages are valued and understood. In the next phase of the project, the effectiveness of the co-designed GSD program will be evaluated using diabetes self-management and quality of life measures. In addition, the feasibility and acceptability of the GSD program will be explored.