Adolescent and parent perceptions of patient-centered communication while managing type 1 diabetes

Objective: To examine whether adolescents' and parents' perceptions of patient-centered communication (PCC) with the physician may be associated with aspects of patient empowerment (e.g., perceptions of competence) and diabetes management (i.e., adherence and HbA1c). Methods: One hundred and ninety adolescents with type 1 diabetes and their parents rated perceptions of PCC following a clinic visit and completed measures of competence, illness perceptions, self-efficacy, and adherence in the weeks following their clinic visit, and again 6 months later. Metabolic control was indexed from medical records. Results: Higher levels of PCC with physicians were associated cross-sectionally and longitudinally with greater perceptions of control and competence for both adolescents and parents. Mediation analyses indicated that PCC was indirectly related to subsequent adherence and metabolic control through perceptions of the adolescent's competence in diabetes management. Conclusions: Perceptions of PCC with healthcare providers may empower adolescents and parents in their diabetes management.