Managing type 1 diabetes at work - A qualitative meta-synthesis

Aims: To interpret the available qualitative research findings on people's experiences of managing type 1 diabetes at work.

Methods: A qualitative meta-synthesis was conducted using constant comparative methods, reciprocal analysis, and a line of argument synthesis, which were expressed narratively.

Results: The study included thirteen articles, revealing a complex relationship between type 1 diabetes and work. People with type one diabetes want minimal interference in their daily routines while balancing health and work responsibilities. The concept of 'containment' emerged as a key strategy, where self-management is integrated alongside work demands. However, this approach may inadvertently lead to psychosocial conflicts and detrimental health outcomes.

Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of creating supportive and empowering workplaces to reduce the tensions between type one diabetes and work. Enabling people with type one diabetes to self-manage effectively while maintaining autonomy requires support that both fosters self-management and avoids isolation. This sort of supportive and empowering work environment for workers with type one diabetes could contribute to facilitating [re]entry and retention in the workforce. This synthesis adds to contemporary knowledge, particularly in qualitative areas, yet further study is needed to identify specific actions that can create more accommodating workplaces for people with type one diabetes.