Evaluating Strategic Implementation and Sustaining Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes in Sultanate of Oman: The Impact of COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Purpose – This study evaluates the strategic implementation and sustainability of therapeutic lifestyle changes (TLCs) in the Sultanate of Oman in response to the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the study examines the effectiveness of pharmacological measures used to manage NCDs during the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing from an extensive literature review, a conceptual model is developed, highlighting various external factors influencing the management of NCDs. The researchers adopt a quantitative research approach, collecting a representative sample of 412 participants from Oman. Statistical analysis is conducted using SPSS and PLS software to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings – The results reveal significant direct effects between therapeutic lifestyle changes, the healthcare system, health behaviour, and NCDs management during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, health behaviour is shown to mediate the relationship between therapeutic lifestyle changes and NCDs management, as well as the relationship between the healthcare system and NCDs management under pandemic conditions. Practical implications – The findings suggest that the implementation of therapeutic lifestyle changes should be supported by the healthcare system and community involvement. The development of improved assessment tools to evaluate the impact of these strategies can aid in tailoring TLC interventions to the specific characteristics of the population. Moreover, effectively addressing the prevalence of NCDs in Oman requires policy changes and improvements in the healthcare system. Originality/value – This study presents a unique conceptual model that contributes to the existing literature on NCDs and specifically addresses the challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The research results and recommendations provided advance the role of TLCs in managing NCDs and contribute to filling the knowledge gap in this area.