Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategies for Engaging Family in Diabetes and Hypertension Management: A Qualitative Study

Family engagement may improve disease management, yet little is known about this topic as it relates to underrepresented minorities who receive care in low-resource primary care settings. This study aimed to explore family engagement in diabetes and hypertension management at an Urban Indian Health Organization to identify opportunities and challenges, and inform care strategies. We employed semi-structured interviews, genograms, eco-maps, and timelines, among 23 English- and Spanish-speaking American Indian and Latino adults with a dual diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and hypertension and 13 family members. Using thematic analysis, we found that family support is not always available, patients have difficulty sharing medical information, and family often live far away. Conversely, opportunities to leverage included a desire for increased engagement, motivation from the younger generation, prevention within the family, outreach to family members with the same conditions, and learning from elders and ancestors. Implications for programs, clinical care, and research are discussed.