Impact of Counseling on Diabetic Patients.

Abstract

In the last two decades role of pharmacist has changed dramatically. At present the pharmacists are becoming more patient oriented than product. Patient counseling by pharmacist deals with providing information to the patients regarding the disease, medications and lifestyle modifications. This study was conducted during Jan 2009 to April 2009 in Moradabad, (U.P) India to determine whether counseling for diabetes patients regarding disease, medication, diet/ nutrition and exercise can improve glycemic control and associated complications. In diabetes, self management and patient adherence to the prescribed medication and lifestyle modifications is very essential and pharmacist can play an important role in counseling. These studies suggest that it is essential to educate the patients regarding proper diet, exercise, glucose control and periodic consultations. In our study, it was found that the most commonly affected domains of quality of life questionnaire in population were freedom to eat, freedom to drink and enjoyment of food, followed by family life and sex life of the individuals. Remaining domains such as, ease of travel, working life and finance were also affected significantly. The counseling plan should address the non-pharmacological and pharmacological measures. Education regarding the acute and chronic complications should be given. There is considerable evidence that Pharmacist provided counseling enhances the patient compliance and improves the quality of life outcomes in diabetes.