Understanding patient experiences in a motivational interviewing intervention to improve whole-person lifestyle among individuals with hypertension or type 2 diabetes: a qualitative focus group study

PURPOSE: This qualitative focus group study aimed to determine how participants responded to a motivational interviewing intervention and to further explore how it impacted whole-person lifestyle of participants with hypertension or type 2 diabetes. METHODS: Twenty participants attended one of five focus groups. A trained researcher led the one-hour focus groups using a semi-structured question guide. Responses were coded using thematic analysis and were then aggregated into six themes. RESULTS: The following six themes emerged most consistently: (1) the importance of a coach who can connect meaningfully with participants; (2) appreciation of the whole-person approach; (3) the power of “choice” in making health behaviour changes; (4) the effectiveness of goal setting and accountability; (5) the desire for increased contact and follow-up; (6) overall positive experience with mixed clinical results. CONCLUSION: Focus group themes highlighted that this intervention may empower individuals to feel confident in their choices and attain their goals during their health and wellness journey.