SATISFACTION RATE WITH NUTRITIONAL MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR DIABETIC PATIENTS AT FEDREAL MEDICAL CENTER OWO, ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT Diabetes mellitus is a growing public health challenge in Nigeria, with nutritional management being a cornerstone in controlling the disease and improving patient outcomes. This study assessed the satisfaction rate of diabetic patients with nutrition management plans (NMPs) at the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Owo, Ondo State. It aimed to explore patient knowledge, satisfaction levels, adherence, and factors influencing adherence to dietary recommendations. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 196 diabetic patients receiving nutritional care at FMC Owo. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS, with descriptive and inferential statistics such as Chi-square tests, t-tests, and ANOVA to explore associations among variables. Findings revealed that 72.4% of participants were educated, and most had fair to good self-rated knowledge of diabetes nutrition management. While 65.3% expressed satisfaction with their NMPs, only 18.4% reported always adhering to them. Key factors influencing adherence included understanding of the plan (72.4%), family support (57.1%), and motivation (50.0%). The most significant barriers to adherence were high cost (54.1%), cultural food preferences (50.0%), and lack of time or support. Inferential analysis showed a significant association between patient satisfaction and knowledge level (p < 0.001), as well as adherence (p < 0.001), while gender had no significant effect. The study concludes that while awareness and satisfaction levels are moderate, actual adherence to nutritional plans is suboptimal, hindered by socioeconomic and cultural challenges. It recommends strengthening personalized, culturally-sensitive dietary counseling, increasing access to trained dietitians, and integrating nutritional education into broader public health initiatives. These strategies are vital for improving patient satisfaction and long-term diabetes management in resource-constrained settings like Nigeria.