Move4Health: A Feasibility Study of a Student-run Type 2 Diabetes Intervention

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of a student run diabetes intervention, as measured by patient retention. Intro: Move4Health is a public health initiative at Thomas Jefferson University (TJU) that uses exercise and education classes to improve self care in female patients with type 2 diabetes. Medical, physical therapy and public health students coordinated with the TJU Department of Family and Community Medicine (DFCM) to address the shortage of diabetes education programs in Philadelphia. Methods: Patients were referred and medically cleared by DFCM physicians and then invited to participate through student phone calls and mailings. The 14 week intervention included a pre and post screening visit and 12 content classes each lasting one hour. The screening visits measured body circumference, blood pressure and BMI, and included a survey assessing self care behaviors. Results: 302 patients were referred from DFCM and 34 patients completed the intervention. Completion was defined as attending both screening visits and 50% of the content classes. The retention rate was 59% as measured from those who attended the first class. Discussion: This study was determined to be feasible and reputable based upon patient retention, physician involvement and student volunteerism. The primary barrier to patient attendance was the time of day which the class was offered. Providing more classes per week to accommodate patients' schedules may further increase retention. Conclusion: Move4Health demonstrates the feasibility of a patient diabetes education and fitness program operated by students.