Self-Efficacy and Insulin Therapy Adherence Among Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: A Descriptive Study

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic condition with a steadily rising prevalence at both global and national levels and remains a significant public health concern in Aceh. Adherence to insulin therapy is often suboptimal and is thought to be influenced by psychological factors, particularly self-efficacy. Aims: This study aimed to describe the levels of self-efficacy and insulin therapy adherence among patients with DM at Dr. Zainoel Abidin Regional General Hospital, Banda Aceh. Methods: A descriptive design was employed, involving 85 respondents selected through consecutive sampling. Data were collected using the Diabetes Management Self-Efficacy Scale (DMSES) with a mean of 153,43±36,11 and the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 (MMAS-8) with a mean of 7,20±1,16. Results: The findings revealed that the majority of respondents had a mean age of 64 years, were female (60%), and had been living with DM for more than five years (64.7%). Most participants demonstrated low self-efficacy (61.2%), while insulin adherence was predominantly at a moderate level (52.9%). Conclusion: Healthcare professionals need to enhance their self-efficacy through ongoing education and support, which is essential for improving insulin therapy adherence and ensuring optimal diabetes management.