Hybrid vs in-person diabetes care: Outcomes and barriers to telemedicine utilization in a post-pandemic setting
Issued Date
2026-01-01
Resource Type
ISSN
17519918
eISSN
18780210
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105032560016
Journal Title
Primary Care Diabetes
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Primary Care Diabetes (2026)
Suggested Citation
Kongmalai T., Yodmalai C., Luerithiphong S., Sitasuwan T., Thongtang N. Hybrid vs in-person diabetes care: Outcomes and barriers to telemedicine utilization in a post-pandemic setting. Primary Care Diabetes (2026). doi:10.1016/j.pcd.2026.03.004 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/115781
Title
Hybrid vs in-person diabetes care: Outcomes and barriers to telemedicine utilization in a post-pandemic setting
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Aims To identify factors influencing successful telemedicine use in diabetes care after the COVID-19 pandemic and compare clinical outcomes between telemedicine and in-person care. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among diabetic patients who requested telemedicine services in 2022. Successful users were defined as completion of both virtual consultation and medication delivery. Data were obtained from medical records and structured telephone interviews. Clinical outcomes over 12 months were compared between patients receiving hybrid care (≥1 telemedicine visit) and those receiving in-person visits. Logistic regression identified predictors of successful telemedicine use. Results Among 464 patients, 301 (64.9%) successfully used telemedicine. Older age and need for family assistance were associated with successful use, whereas insulin therapy and use of the hospital-based telemedicine platform were associated with lower success. Repeated telemedicine users showed higher self-monitoring behaviors, including SMBG and home blood pressure monitoring. Over 12 months, hybrid care was associated with modest reduction in body weight and systolic blood pressure, while glycemic and lipid outcomes were comparable to in-person care. Conclusions Telemedicine is a feasible model for diabetes management, particularly for older adults and those with mobility or transportation limitations. Hybrid care achieved outcomes comparable to in-person visits while potentially improving care accessibility and patient engagement.