Abstract
Background: Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is essential for optimal self-management of glycemic control. Objective: To assess diabetic patients and caregivers of diabetic patients' practices and satisfaction with SMBG usage in Saudi Arabia. Methods: Data was anonymously collected from participants across Saudi Arabia using a pretested questionnaire. Practices, experiences and satisfactions related to SMBG usage among diabetic patients and caregivers of diabetic patients were recorded. A modified version of the CGM Satisfaction Scale (CGM-SAT), which had 18 items, was used to record satisfaction regarding SMBG usage. All the data obtained data were tabulated and subjected to appropriate statistical analysis. Results: The majority of the diabetic patients demonstrated good satisfaction and the mean satisfaction score was found to be 74.0 +/- 8.5 (maximum=90). No statistically significant differences were seen in satisfaction scores between the two genders and nationalities (p>0.05). However, satisfaction was significantly higher among those who used SMBG more than once a day (p=0.029), those who were on anti-diabetic medication (p=0.004) and those who were on insulin injection (p=0.041). Conclusion: Better self-glucose monitoring experiences are necessary for good treatment of patients with any type of diabetes and patient satisfaction is becoming increasingly important and widely recognized as a vital indicator of the quality of the healthcare system.