Diabetes 2.0: how are online platforms changing the game for type-one diabetes patients?

Abstract

Chronic diseases like type 1 diabetes (T1D) require constant management and attention. This creates uncertainties and anxieties for the patients and require additional supporting systems for patients. This thesis examines the roles of online T1D communities in Türkiye in relation to social support, health equity, and eHealth literacy. Qualitative interviews with community members and professionals are used to understand how these communities function. A total of 18 qualitative interviews were conducted with community builders and members to understand the dynamics of these communities. Regarding social support, findings show that instrumental support is a very common type of support in Türkiye. For health equity, members utilize online T1D communities in Türkiye to access necessary services that the healthcare system should provide. The research also investigates how varying levels of eHealth literacy affect members’ abilities to use health information and reveals that more literate members often assist others and correct misinformation. Building on uses and gratifications as the main theoretical framework, the study underscores the intertwined link between social support, health equity, and eHealth literacy among different groups within online T1D communities in Türkiye. Significantly, this study indicates that online type one diabetes communities in Türkiye may lead to inclusive health by reducing health disparities; in light of this, healthcare support systems should be enhanced.