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The increasing number of emerging adults with diabetes (EAWD) being cared for in adult health care settings requires a better understanding of the needs of EAWD and their interactions with adult health care providers (HCPs). This article describes findings from interviews with endocrinologists and diabetes nurses from a safety-net health care system to investigate HCPs’ perspectives regarding influences on EAWD self-management and HCP interactions with EAWD. HCPs frequently perceived lower EAWD engagement in diabetes management, which was complicated by barriers such as the emotional burden of diabetes, busy lives and multiple responsibilities, and limited access to resources; however, HCPs valued the role of information and communication at visits in tailoring care for EAWD. Measures to tailor care should address the psychosocial burden related to the life stage goals and priorities of EAWD, identification of resources for EAWD and HCPs, and further elucidation of effective self-management guidance and communication strategies to support EAWD in safety-net settings.

Emerging adults with diabetes, particularly in underserved communities, represent a growing but less studied population whose needs may differ from older adults. This study investigated perspectives of underserved emerging adults regarding diabetes self-management influences and provider interactions. Focus groups and interviews with emerging adults in a safety-net health care setting were conducted to identify perspectives regarding self-management influences and patient-provider interactions. Diabetes was perceived as a psychological burden complicated by busy lifestyles and competing responsibilities. Lack of resources, especially financial barriers, also limited self-management. Participants often perceived diabetes visits as standardized encounters providing access to diabetes supplies but desired additional guidance appropriate to their needs and life-stage. Participants valued encouragement and positive ongoing provider relationships for tailored informational and emotional support and support from family and peers. Providers and health care systems adapting to provide or facilitate this support will be better able to optimize diabetes management at and between visits.