Emma Peacock

I am honored to receive an APhA Foundation Incentive Grant to advance the conversation of the impact of adherence to oral diabetes medications in patients with T2DM at risk for depression or diabetes distress. This grant will drive research on the phenomenon of diabetes distress and its link to gaps in diabetes management. By understanding how this population can be identified to be at risk for depression and have gaps in medication adherence, I hope to explore avenues for community pharmacy clinical programs to support adherence, identify gaps in care of diabetes management, and address mental health in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

My research proposal stems from the prevalence of the profound mental burden of many chronic disease states, but particularly those with diabetes. As a type 1 diabetic myself, I strive to provide better care for these patients - helping patients with diabetes live healthier, longer lives and minimize the risk of macro- and micro-vascular complications associated with this chronic disease. As the most accessible health care professional to most patients, community pharmacists have the honor and responsibility to take a more active role in patient care.

The potential for this project to address the unmet needs of patients with diabetes and increased interprofessional patient care collaboration is what excites me the most. I believe this project will help build stronger relationships with patients, improve their overall diabetes management, and eventually minimize the risks of complications from diabetes.