[Family, socioeconomic status and health services: Clues to health care in diabetic patients with lower limb amputations in Andalusia. A qualitative study].

AIM: To examine the experience of diabetic care in patients undergoing lower limb amputation.

DESIGN

A qualitative study using the phenomenological approach.

SETTING

Cadiz Health District.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 16 patients (11 men and 5 women) diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type 2 and with non-traumatic lower limb amputation.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were performed, followed by a content analysis according Graneheim and Lundman.

RESULTS

Four categories were identified: 1. The family is the cornerstone for diabetic care. 2. The socio-economic and working conditions determine the quality of self-care. 3. The patient-health professional interaction facilitates patient care. 4. Limitations in the provision of health services.

CONCLUSION

Family, economic and working conditions, along with health system-related factors are the most important elements in the care of patients with diabetes and amputations. Social, economic and working conditions determine diabetic complications. In order to enhance health care impact on the prevention of diabetes mellitus complications, health system policy makers must take these facts seriously into consideration and in a more personalised manner.