GestDina – Analysis of the current aftercare situation for gestational diabetes

Introduction Gestational diabetes (GDM), a complication during pregnancy, has a prevalence between 4% and 20% depending on the database and definition. Epidemiological studies show that affected women have an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes later in life. Therefore, structured postnatal care is crucial.

It is unclear to what extent affected women receive aftercare in line with clinical guidelines. Procedures and interactions between different care providers are not regulated explicitly. Available evidence suggests that under-, over- and misuse of aftercare guidelines exist in parallel.

The aim of the project “Aftercare for gestational diabetes” (GestDiNa_basic) is to map and analyse aftercare of women with GDM in Germany.

Methods The study design is based on different data sources using a mixed-method approach. Quantitative and qualitative surveys will assess knowledge, awareness, attitudes, routines and experiences of affected patients and care providers involved in the aftercare of women with GDM. Other data sources of the project include different statutory health insurance funds, the Kassenärztliche Vereinigung Nordrhein and the GestDiab Register - Diabetes in pregnancy.

Results The findings are integrated into a model of care that relates the prioritized barriers and resources for the individual groups to each other and to the analysis of the current care situation. Based on the results a healthcare model will be developed that can be evaluated in subsequent projects.

Summary The results can contribute to the development of an appropriate, effective and patient-centred healthcare model. The study design as well as first project work will be presented.

Interessenkonflikt

Matthias Kaltheuner: Vorstandsmitglied der Deutschen Diabetes-Gesellschaft; Mitglied in der Leitlinien Arbeitsgruppe Gestationsdiabetes; Vorsitzender des Berufsverbands der niedergelassenen Diabetologen in Nordrhein BdSN e.V., Dorit Müller-Bößmann: Mitarbeiterin der Geschäftsstelle der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Hebammenwissenschaft e.V. (DGHW). Alle anderen Autoren haben erklärt, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht.

Publication History

Article published online:
07 October 2020