Diabetes mellitus self-management (DMSM) is an essential strategy used to maintain blood glucose levels and to prevent severe complications. Several barriers have been documented while implementing DMSM practices. A qualitative study aimed to explore barriers to effective DMSM practice among uncontrolled glycemic type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in Indonesia. We conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) among 28 key informants, including patients, family members, healthcare providers (HCPs), and village health volunteers (VHVs). The interviews and FGDs were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. The results revealed six core themes with sub-categories of themes used by all participants to describe the barriers to effective DMSM practice among uncontrolled T2DM patients. The critical barriers of DMSM practice included low perception of susceptibility to and severity of the illness; inadequate knowledge and skill of diabetes mellitus self-management; lack of motivation to perform diabetes mellitus self-management; insufficient human resources; lack of social engagement; and social exclusion and feelings of embarrassment. Our findings provide valuable information regarding the barriers while implementing the DMSM practice. Healthcare providers should negotiate with both T2DM patients and caretakers to participate in a DMSM program at a community health care level.
Keywords: Indonesian communities; barriers; self-management; uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus.