Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases type 2
diabetes risk; however, postpartum diabetes screening rates are low. Using
semi-structured interviews and focus groups, this study investigates the understanding
of GDM and
its relationship to future
diabetes risk and diabetes prevention among patients with public or no
insurance (<i>n </i>= 36), health care providers
(<i>n </i>= 21), and clinic staff (<i>n </i>= 9) from Federally Qualified Health
Centers. Five
main themes emerged: <i>1</i>) general
understanding of GDM diagnosis with focus on neonatal complications; <i>2</i>) variable recall of diet, exercise,
and weight recommendations; <i>3</i>) overwhelming
medication and self-monitoring routines; <i>4</i>)
short-term focus of type 2 diabetes risk and screening; and <i>5</i>) limited understanding of all options
for diabetes prevention. The results may inform diabetes screening and
prevention interventions in primary care settings.
Type 2 Diabetes Screening