Commitment to Patient Learning at FAME

In January, we highlighted International Day of Education and the emphasis that FAME puts into the capacity building of its staff, by empowering Tanzanian healthcare workers with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to provide quality patient-centered care.

As a learning institution, we are committed not only to improving educational opportunities for our staff, but FAME’s healthcare workers conduct hospital-based patient education as part of their healthcare delivery. The education of the patients not only ensures informed decision-making but also increases the chances for positive outcomes as the patients are more likely to engage in their care. 

This week, we had a newly diagnosed Type 1 diabetes case at FAME. Baraka* a 32-year-old Maasai man, walked into FAME feeling extremely tired and had difficulty walking. This was unusual for him as he is used to walking long distances with no problems at all. He thought he had malaria, and would quickly get some medicine and go home. Sadly, what he thought was malaria was in fact Type 1 diabetes. 

“I didn't know this disease existed. I do not know what it is.”

This is the first statement Baraka said to the medical staff when he was diagnosed. The staff took time to educate him on the disease: what it was, how to take care of yourself, and what to eat and why. 

With chronic illnesses such as diabetes, health literacy was of utmost importance. Limited knowledge about it would make it difficult for Baraka to successfully manage his condition, potentially leading to severe complications. Nurse Ameria James sat with him for hours going through everything he needed to learn. When she was done, she asked him questions until she was confident he understood the course of treatment and was self-confident in taking charge of his treatment.

“I am so happy about the treatment I have received. The doctors and nurses have patiently educated me about Type 1 diabetes and how to take care of myself. I have asked that they give this diabetes education to everyone so that more people are aware of this disease. If I wasn't chronically tired I wouldn't have come to FAME, and who knows how bad it would have gotten! I think it's important for people to know the symptoms to watch out for. When I go home, I am ready to follow everything I've learned here and if it's possible, I will take a doctor's number and call them if I have any problems.” 

After three nights at FAME, Baraka was discharged and went back to his village in Ngorongoro, 45 miles away.

*While the patient’s name has been changed to protect privacy, permission was secured to share his photo and story with FAME supporters, and to raise awareness of available medical care at FAME Medical.