Development of Practice Guidelines for a Diabetes Care Network to Achieve Remission at Khao Suan Kwang Hospital, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

This study aimed to develop best practices for diabetes care networks and to evaluate the effectiveness of diabetes control programs in achieving remission at Khao Suan Kwang Hospital, Khon Kaen Province. This action research conducted between March and June 2026, the sample group consisted of 86 networks and 34 diabetic patients. Data were collected using a questionnaire with an overall reliability Cronbach's alpha = 0.84 and the program to induce diabetes remission comprises nine activities. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-test. The findings show that the diabetes remission program comprised teaching and training activities delivered by a network of mentors, encompassing nine key components: 1) basic care principles, 2) goal setting, 3) motivation, 4) dietary modification, 5) emotional support, 6) blood glucose control, 7) infection management, 8) cholesterol reduction, and 9) patient follow-up. Following the development of the network, the overall operational practice increased significantly (p < 0.001). The findings revealed a statistically significant increase in the number of diabetic patients achieving health status in remission (p < 0.05), with marked improvements in waist circumference, blood pressure, HbA1c levels, and DTX. Regarding behavioral outcomes, overall mean score for preventive behaviors against diabetic complications increased significantly (p = 0.003). Overall mean score for diabetes remission control behaviors statistically significant improvement (p = 0.002), and capability to perform overall activities of daily living (ADL) increased significantly (p < 0.001). This diabetes management program should be implemented continuously to support sustainable behavioral changes and promote diabetes remission.