What training and support do people need to make optimal use of automated insulin delivery systems: Interview study

TL;DR

This study explores how people with type 1 diabetes can best use automated insulin delivery systems through tailored training and ongoing support.

Contribution

The study identifies specific training and support needs of users of automated insulin delivery systems based on their personal experiences.

Findings

Users benefit from personalized training that considers their learning preferences and prior experience.

Ongoing support is needed for data review, emotional support, habit formation, and education.

Existing training programs should be adapted to include behavioral science techniques.

Abstract

Despite increased use of automated insulin delivery (AID) systems, limited attention has been paid to users' training and support needs. Indeed, most guidance has been driven by clinician opinion rather than users' experiences and needs. We explored the experiences of adults with type 1 diabetes initiated onto AID to make recommendations for supporting optimal use of AID systems in routine clinical practice.

We conducted interviews with n = 22 individuals who used the Tandem t:slim X2™ with Control‐IQ technology AID system for ≥6 and ≤12 months. Data were analysed thematically.

Users reported wide‐ranging clinical and quality‐of‐life benefits. However, to actualise these benefits, they highlighted a need for bespoke training which took account of their learning preferences and strengths, pace of learning and prior insulin pump experience, together with ongoing support from healthcare professionals. Thematic analysis uncovered four overlapping support needs: (1) support reviewing data and making adjustments to the system's settings, (2) emotional/psychological support to help sustain motivation and/or adopt more passive self‐management roles, (3) support to unlearn unhelpful behaviours and/or establish new habits and routines; and (4) educational support.

AID systems are an exciting advance in diabetes treatment. However, to achieve optimal gains, users would benefit from initial training and ongoing glycaemic, educational, and psychosocial support tailored to their preferred ways of learning and personal circumstances. Consideration should be given to adapting existing education and training packages for AID system users to incorporate behavioural science techniques and upskilling diabetes professionals in behaviour change approaches and motivational interviewing.