Evaluating group visits in an uninsured or inadequately insured patient population with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a managed-care approach (group visits) on delivering care to uninsured or inadequately insured patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: One hundred twenty patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to receive care in group visits or usual care for 6 months. At baseline, 3 months, and 6 months, the feasibility and acceptability of this model of healthcare delivery were assessed through the patients' responses to the Primary Care Assessment Tool and the Trust in Physician Scale. Attendance records were kept for each group. RESULTS: Patients who received care in group visits showed an improved sense of trust in their physician compared with patients who continued to receive usual care. There was a tendency for patients in groups to report better coordination of their care, better community orientation, and more culturally competent care. Patient attendance at the groups also indicated good acceptance of this form of healthcare delivery. CONCLUSIONS: Group visits were feasible and acceptable to these uninsured and inadequately insured patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes and fostered an improved sense of trust in their physician.