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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Maria Lopez, MPH, MS, Social Welfare and Prevention Research Center, The University at Albany, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222, 518-641-8086, ml76epid@yahoo.com

Introduction

This study aims to determine the prevalence of diabetes types by sex, identify which structural and/or personal barriers result in lower or higher access to receipt of diabetes care and investigate specific socio-demographic factors influencing receipt of diabetes care. Given the increasing prevalence of diabetes among Latinos, research suggests that access to receipt of diabetes care is a great concern.

Methods

We will use survey data (n=100) collected from outreach offices in Amsterdam, NY, and analyze diabetes self-care by asking respondents whether or not they have visited a doctor for diabetes related concerns in the past 12 months. Data collection is in progress and will be completed by June 2006.

Analysis

We anticipate: those experiencing structural and personal barriers are more likely to receive care compared to those who do not. National data will also used to examine differences in health care utilization. The absence of barriers may not always explain the lack of receipt since other socio-cultural or environmental factors may play a role.

Discussion

Most research on diabetes has been limited to disease prevalence and risk factors, but few studies explore differences in receipt of diabetes care due to structural and personal barriers. Individuals who do not seek treatment are at risk for complications and therefore experience increased financial burdens.

Learning Objectives:

• Show demographic characteristics of Latinos who access care for diabetes.
• Identify structural and personal barriers resulting in differences in care.
• Explain why certain Latinos access diabetes care despite the presence of specific barriers.

Keywords: Access to Care, Diabetes

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered