Identifying changes in diabetes care

Abstract

Malta is a small Mediterranean island with particularly distinct population and culture. It also has one of the highest rates of type 2 diabetes in the world. As a result it provides a unique microcosm of problems in diabetes care common across Europe. This study explores the effects of culture, religion and government organisation on the management of patients with diabetes. The cultures of patients, health care professionals and the Maltese government were examined in terms of their influence on the potential to deliver culturally relevant competent care. The results of this research indicate that national culture and local practices may have a detrimental influence on the management of diabetes in Malta. The findings highlight the need for change if effective diabetes care is to be offered to the Maltese population. These changes are related to a highly complex, poorly understood health care system, and to the way in which it is structured and the way health care processes are managed in this highly specific national and ethnic culture.