Support needs for chronic disease self-management among persons attending a primary health care facility in Victor Khanye, Mpumalanga

Abstract

Background: With the increasing burden of non-communicable chronic diseases, it is important to empower people to self-manage their conditions. This study aimed to explore the support that persons living with chronic disease require to self-manage their conditions at a Primary Health Care (PHC) facility in the Victor-Khanye subdistrict, Delmas, Mpumalanga. Methods: Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 adult participants who collected their monthly medication for diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus or hypertension. Data were analysed manually using thematic analysis. Results: Three themes were identified: (1) individual self-management; (2) support enhancing for self-management; and (3) barriers to self-management. The study highlights that self-management requires a combination of individual beliefs, capabilities, education, access to healthcare resources, financial assistance, emotional support from family and friends, and community support. While knowledge is crucial for empowering individuals to manage their diseases effectively, challenges such as financial constraints and a lack of specific self-management support provided by healthcare workers hinder many from fully implementing self-management strategies. Conclusion: Persons living with chronic disease require comprehensive care that extends beyond healthcare and includes emotional, social and financial support. Effective self-management requires access to tailored education and community support networks that allow people to take an active role in their health. Contribution: Understanding the support persons living with chronic diseases require for effective self-management is critical for improving health outcomes, enhancing quality of life and promoting sustainable healthcare systems.