Open-access Therapeutic itinerary of individuals affected by amputation due to diabetic foot: tales of care (or the lack thereof)

Diabetes has implications that require long-term care. When not adequately controlled, this disease can lead to several complications, including diabetic foot. The present qualitative study analyzes the therapeutic itineraries of 20 individuals with lower limb amputations as a result of diabetic foot. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and interpreted using thematic content analysis, with theoretical and methodological support from holistic therapeutic itinerary analysis. Two categories were chosen: (i) dealing with vulnerabilities - economic and social aspects influence the decisions made in the therapeutic itinerary; and (ii) mishaps along the way - the search for assistance in care settings. The individuals lived in situations of socioeconomic vulnerability that worsened with the amputation. Seeking care in formal health network was undertaken by the patients themselves. The lack of guidance and referrals from primary health care to other services may have led to delayed care. Informal care, ranging from religious practices to at-home care, was also used. The therapeutic itinerary of the different individuals revealed the multiplicity of experiences and care (or lack thereof) that permeates different settings.

Keywords:
Diabetes Mellitus; Therapeutic Itinerary; Access to Health Services; Primary Health Care


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