Submission ID 118521
| Issue/Objective | Patient Advisory Boards (PABs) have emerged as an innovative strategy for addressing critical challenges in healthcare, particularly improving adherence and reducing lost to follow-up. By engaging patients as active participants in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare services, PABs provide a structured platform for patients to voice their perspectives, concerns, and preferences. This patient-centered approach offers valuable insights into the barriers that contribute to non-adherence and follow-up challenges. In this three-year study, we examine the implementation of a PAB model by Partners In Health Liberia (PIHL) and the Maryland County Health Team. The focus is on assessing the effectiveness of PABs in improving adherence to treatment and reducing loss to follow-up among individuals living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in Maryland County, Liberia. |
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| Methodology/Approach | In May 2021, a Patient Advisory Board (PAB) was established as part of the PEN-Plus strategy to enhance patient-centered care, improve adherence, and reduce lost to follow-up among individuals with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in Maryland County. Over three years, 52 T1D patients were enrolled in the PEN-Plus clinic. The PAB held monthly feedback sessions and group discussions to address patient concerns, including stigma and social isolation. Each patient met with a designated Peer Supporter once a month, and Community Health Workers (CHWs) conducted monthly visits to PAB representatives in their communities. Additionally, PAB members collaborated with healthcare workers for monthly radio programs aimed at community awareness and education. Clinical data from May 2021 to May 2024 were reviewed to evaluate adherence, lost to follow-up rates, and the frequency of PAB-led activities such as feedback sessions and interviews. |
| Results | Of the 54 enrolled T1D patients, 4 were lost to follow-up, yielding a retention rate of 92%. Adherence to scheduled appointments was 98% among retained patients. Additionally, 2 patients died during the study period and were excluded from retention analysis. All 40 planned feedback sessions, group discussions, and community visits were conducted. PAB implementation significantly improved patient engagement, contributing to reduced stigma and the initiation of a community garden project. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | PABs are an effective tool for improving engagement, adherence, and retention in T1D care. They empower patients to take active roles in their care and enhance community awareness. Further research is needed to explore the broader application of PABs in managing chronic diseases. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Joe P. Davies Partners in Health, Liberia. Ssentamu John Vanglist Partners in Health, Liberia. Sterman Toussaint Partners in Health, Liberia. Sarah Anyango Partners in Health, Liberia. Joshua F. Bartue Maryland County Health Team, Ministry of Health (MOH) Alphonso Jallah Partners in Health, Liberia. Howe Wodoblita Maryland County Health Team, Ministry of Health (MOH) Theophilus T. Allison Partners in Health, Liberia. Tomarleen J Collins Partners in Health, Liberia. Anthony Tucker Ministry of Health , Liberia Gedeon Ngoga Ministry of Health, Rwanda / Rwanda Biomedical Center, NCD Division, Rwanda C. Trujillo Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA Gina Ferari Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA Maxo Luma Partners in Health, Liberia. |
