CGM Initiation Soon After Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis Results in Sustained CGM Use and Wear Time

Appropriateness and acceptability of continuous glucose monitoring in people with type 1 diabetes at rural first-level hospitals in Malawi: a qualitative study

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this qualitative study is to describe the acceptability and appropriateness of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in people living with type 1 diabetes (PLWT1D) at first-level (district) hospitals in Malawi.

DESIGN

We conducted semistructured qualitative interviews among PLWT1D and healthcare providers participating in the study. Standardised interview guides elicited perspectives on the appropriateness and acceptability of CGM use for PLWT1D and their providers, and provider perspectives on the effectiveness of CGM use in Malawi. Data were coded using Dedoose software and analysed using a thematic approach.

SETTING

First-level hospitals in Neno district, Malawi.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were part of a randomised controlled trial focused on CGM at first-level hospitals in Neno district, Malawi. Pretrial and post-trial interviews were conducted for participants in the CGM and usual care arms, and one set of interviews was conducted with providers.

RESULTS

Eleven PLWT1D recruited for the CGM randomised controlled trial and five healthcare providers who provided care to participants with T1D were included. Nine PLWT1D were interviewed twice, two were interviewed once. Of the 11 participants with T1D, six were from the CGM arm and five were in usual care arm. Key themes emerged regarding the appropriateness and effectiveness of CGM use in lower resource setting. The four main themes were (a) patient provider relationship, (b) stigma and psychosocial support, (c) device usage and (d) clinical management.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants and healthcare providers reported that CGM use was appropriate and acceptable in the study setting, although the need to support it with health education sessions was highlighted. This research supports the use of CGM as a component of personalised diabetes treatment for PLWT1D in resource constraint settings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

PACTR202102832069874; Post-results.

Safety Event Outcomes and Glycemic Control with a Hybrid Closed-Loop System Used by Chinese Adolescents and Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: While evidence supports glycemic control benefits for individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) using hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems, HCL automated insulin delivery therapy in China has not been assessed. This study evaluated safety events and effectiveness during HCL system use by Chinese adolescents and adults with T1DM. Methods: Sixty-two participants (n = 12 adolescents with a mean ± standard deviation [SD] of 15.5 ± 1.1 years and n = 50 adults [mean ± SD of 37.6 ± 11.1 years]) with T1DM and baseline A1C of 7.1% ± 1.0% underwent a run-in period (∼2 weeks) using open-loop Manual Mode (sensor-augmented pump) insulin delivery with the MiniMed™ 770G system with the Guardian™ Sensor (3) glucose sensor, followed by a study period (4 weeks) with HCL Auto Mode enabled. Analyses compared continuous glucose monitoring data and insulin delivered during the run-in versus study period (Wilcoxon signed-rank test or t-test). Safety events included rates of severe hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Results: Compared to baseline run-in, overall Auto Mode use increased time in range (TIR, 70-180 mg/dL) from 75.3% to 80.9% (P < 0.001) and reduced time below range (TBR, <70 mg/dL) from 4.7% to 2.2% (P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that participants (n = 29) with baseline A1C <7.0% had TBR that reduced from 5.6% to 2.0%, while participants (n = 21) with baseline A1C ≥7.5% had time above range (TAR, >180 mg/dL) that reduced from 31.6% to 20.8%. Auto Mode use also increased the percentage achieving combined recommendations for time at sensor glucose ranges (i.e., TIR of >70%, TBR of <4% and TAR of <25%) from 24.2% at baseline to 77.4% at study end. Total daily insulin dose reduced from 42.8 ± 19.8 to 40.7 ± 18.9 U (P = 0.013). There were no severe hypoglycemic, DKA, or serious adverse events. Conclusions: Chinese adolescents and adults, some of whom met target A1C at baseline, safely achieved significantly improved glycemia with 1 month of MiniMed 770G system use when compared to open-loop insulin delivery. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04663295.

The Effect of Do-It-Yourself Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Glycemic Variables and Participant-Reported Outcomes in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized Crossover Trial

AIM

Real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) has several advantages over intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) but generally comes at a higher cost. Do-it-yourself rtCGM (DIY-rtCGM) potentially has benefits similar to those of rtCGM. This study compared outcomes in adults with type 1 diabetes using DIY-rtCGM versus isCGM.

METHODS

In this crossover trial, adults with type 1 diabetes were randomized to use isCGM or DIY-rtCGM for eight weeks before crossover to use the other device for eight weeks, after a four-week washout period where participants reverted back to isCGM. The primary endpoint was time in range (TIR; 3.9-10 mmol/L). Secondary endpoints included other glycemic control measures, psychosocial outcomes, and sleep quality.

RESULTS

Sixty participants were recruited, and 52 (87%) completed follow-up. Glucose outcomes were similar in the DIY-rtCGM and isCGM groups, including TIR (53.1% vs 51.3%; mean difference -1.7% P = .593), glycosylated hemoglobin (57.0 ± 17.8 vs 61.4 ± 12.2 mmol/L; P = .593), and time in hypoglycemia <3.9 mmol/L (3.9 ± 3.8% vs 3.8 ± 4.0%; P = .947). Hypoglycemia Fear Survey total score (1.17 ± 0.52 vs 0.97 ± 0.54; P = .02) and fear of hypoglycemia score (1.18 ± 0.64 vs 0.97 ± 0.45; P = .02) were significantly higher during DIY-rtCGM versus isCGM. Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire status (DTSQS) score was also higher with DIY-rtCGM versus isCGM (28.7 ± 5.8 vs 26.0 ± 5.8; P = .04), whereas diabetes-related quality of life was slightly lower (DAWN2 Impact of Diabetes score: 3.11 ± 0.4 vs 3.32 ± 0.51; P = .045); sleep quality did not differ between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Although the use of DIY-rtCGM did not improve glycemic outcomes compared with isCGM, it positively impacted several patient-reported psychosocial variables. DIY-rtCGM potentially provides an alternative, cost-effective rtCGM option.

A quantitative model to ensure capacity sufficient for timely access to care in a remote patient monitoring program

INTRODUCTION

Algorithm-enabled remote patient monitoring (RPM) programs pose novel operational challenges. For clinics developing and deploying such programs, no standardized model is available to ensure capacity sufficient for timely access to care. We developed a flexible model and interactive dashboard of capacity planning for whole-population RPM-based care for T1D.

METHODS

Data were gathered from a weekly RPM program for 277 paediatric patients with T1D at a paediatric academic medical centre. Through the analysis of 2 years of observational operational data and iterative interviews with the care team, we identified the primary operational, population, and workforce metrics that drive demand for care providers. Based on these metrics, an interactive model was designed to facilitate capacity planning and deployed as a dashboard.

RESULTS

The primary population-level drivers of demand are the number of patients in the program, the rate at which patients enrol and graduate from the program, and the average frequency at which patients require a review of their data. The primary modifiable clinic-level drivers of capacity are the number of care providers, the time required to review patient data and contact a patient, and the number of hours each provider allocates to the program each week. At the institution studied, the model identified a variety of practical operational approaches to better match the demand for patient care.

CONCLUSION

We designed a generalizable, systematic model for capacity planning for a paediatric endocrinology clinic providing RPM for T1D. We deployed this model as an interactive dashboard and used it to facilitate expansion of a novel care program (4 T Study) for newly diagnosed patients with T1D. This model may facilitate the systematic design of RPM-based care programs.

Fully printed and self-compensated bioresorbable electrochemical devices based on galvanic coupling for continuous glucose monitoring

Real-time glucose monitoring conventionally involves non-bioresorbable semi-implantable glucose sensors, causing infection and pain during removal. Despite bioresorbable electronics serves as excellent alternatives, the bioresorbable sensor dissolves in aqueous environments with interferential biomolecules. Here, the theories to achieve stable electrode potential and accurate electrochemical detection using bioresorbable materials have been proposed, resulting in a fully printed bioresorbable electrochemical device. The adverse effect caused by material degradation has been overcome by a molybdenum-tungsten reference electrode that offers stable potential through galvanic-coupling and self-compensation modules. In vitro and in vivo glucose monitoring has been conducted for 7 and 5 days, respectively, followed by full degradation within 2 months. The device offers a glucose detection range of 0 to 25 millimolars and a sensitivity of 0.2458 microamperes per millimolar with anti-interference capability and biocompatibility, indicating the possibility of mass manufacturing high-performance bioresorbable electrochemical devices using printing and low-temperature water-sintering techniques. The mechanisms may be implemented developing more comprehensive bioresorbable sensors for chronic diseases.

Accuracy of a Seventh-Generation Continuous Glucose Monitoring System in Children and Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Accuracy of a seventh-generation "G7" continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system was evaluated in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

Sensors were worn on the upper arm and abdomen. The CGM data were available from 127 of 132 participants, ages 7 to 17 years, across 10.5 days of use, various glucose concentration ranges, and various rates of glucose change for comparisons with temporally matched venous blood glucose measurements (YSI). Data were also available from 28 of 32 participants, ages 2 to 6 years, for whom capillary (fingerstick) blood provided comparator glucose values. Accuracy metrics included the mean absolute relative difference (MARD) between CGM and comparator glucose pairs, the proportion of CGM values within 15 mg/dL or 15% of comparator values <100 or ≥100 mg/dL, respectively, and the analogous %20/20 and %30/30 agreement rates.

RESULTS

For participants aged 7 to 17, a total of 15 437 matched pairs were obtained from 122 arm-placed and 118 abdomen-placed sensors. For arm-placed sensors, the overall MARD was 8.1% and overall %15/15, %20/20, and %30/30 agreement rates were 88.8%, 95.3%, and 98.7%, respectively. For abdomen-placed sensors, the overall MARD was 9.0% and overall %15/15, %20/20, and %30/30 agreement rates were 86.0%, 92.9%, and 97.7%, respectively. Good accuracy was maintained across wear days, glucose ranges, and rates of glucose change. Among those aged 2 to 6, a total of 343 matched pairs provided an overall MARD of 9.3% and an overall %20/20 agreement rate of 91.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

The G7 CGM placed on the arm or abdomen was accurate in children and adolescents with T1D. NCT#: NCT04794478.

Disparities in Hemoglobin A1c Levels in the First Year After Diagnosis Among Youths With Type 1 Diabetes Offered Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Importance

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is associated with improvements in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in youths with type 1 diabetes (T1D); however, youths from minoritized racial and ethnic groups and those with public insurance face greater barriers to CGM access. Early initiation of and access to CGM may reduce disparities in CGM uptake and improve diabetes outcomes.

Objective

To determine whether HbA1c decreases differed by ethnicity and insurance status among a cohort of youths newly diagnosed with T1D and provided CGM.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used data from the Teamwork, Targets, Technology, and Tight Control (4T) study, a clinical research program that aims to initiate CGM within 1 month of T1D diagnosis. All youths with new-onset T1D diagnosed between July 25, 2018, and June 15, 2020, at Stanford Children's Hospital, a single-site, freestanding children's hospital in California, were approached to enroll in the Pilot-4T study and were followed for 12 months. Data analysis was performed and completed on June 3, 2022.

Exposures

All eligible participants were offered CGM within 1 month of diabetes diagnosis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

To assess HbA1c change over the study period, analyses were stratified by ethnicity (Hispanic vs non-Hispanic) or insurance status (public vs private) to compare the Pilot-4T cohort with a historical cohort of 272 youths diagnosed with T1D between June 1, 2014, and December 28, 2016.

Results

The Pilot-4T cohort comprised 135 youths, with a median age of 9.7 years (IQR, 6.8-12.7 years) at diagnosis. There were 71 boys (52.6%) and 64 girls (47.4%). Based on self-report, participants' race was categorized as Asian or Pacific Islander (19 [14.1%]), White (62 [45.9%]), or other race (39 [28.9%]); race was missing or not reported for 15 participants (11.1%). Participants also self-reported their ethnicity as Hispanic (29 [21.5%]) or non-Hispanic (92 [68.1%]). A total of 104 participants (77.0%) had private insurance and 31 (23.0%) had public insurance. Compared with the historical cohort, similar reductions in HbA1c at 6, 9, and 12 months postdiagnosis were observed for Hispanic individuals (estimated difference, -0.26% [95% CI, -1.05% to 0.43%], -0.60% [-1.46% to 0.21%], and -0.15% [-1.48% to 0.80%]) and non-Hispanic individuals (estimated difference, -0.27% [95% CI, -0.62% to 0.10%], -0.50% [-0.81% to -0.11%], and -0.47% [-0.91% to 0.06%]) in the Pilot-4T cohort. Similar reductions in HbA1c at 6, 9, and 12 months postdiagnosis were also observed for publicly insured individuals (estimated difference, -0.52% [95% CI, -1.22% to 0.15%], -0.38% [-1.26% to 0.33%], and -0.57% [-2.08% to 0.74%]) and privately insured individuals (estimated difference, -0.34% [95% CI, -0.67% to 0.03%], -0.57% [-0.85% to -0.26%], and -0.43% [-0.85% to 0.01%]) in the Pilot-4T cohort. Hispanic youths in the Pilot-4T cohort had higher HbA1c at 6, 9, and 12 months postdiagnosis than non-Hispanic youths (estimated difference, 0.28% [95% CI, -0.46% to 0.86%], 0.63% [0.02% to 1.20%], and 1.39% [0.37% to 1.96%]), as did publicly insured youths compared with privately insured youths (estimated difference, 0.39% [95% CI, -0.23% to 0.99%], 0.95% [0.28% to 1.45%], and 1.16% [-0.09% to 2.13%]).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that CGM initiation soon after diagnosis is associated with similar improvements in HbA1c for Hispanic and non-Hispanic youths as well as for publicly and privately insured youths. These results further suggest that equitable access to CGM soon after T1D diagnosis may be a first step to improve HbA1c for all youths but is unlikely to eliminate disparities entirely.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04336969.

A model to design financially sustainable algorithm-enabled remote patient monitoring for pediatric type 1 diabetes care

Introduction

Population-level algorithm-enabled remote patient monitoring (RPM) based on continuous glucose monitor (CGM) data review has been shown to improve clinical outcomes in diabetes patients, especially children. However, existing reimbursement models are geared towards the direct provision of clinic care, not population health management. We developed a financial model to assist pediatric type 1 diabetes (T1D) clinics design financially sustainable RPM programs based on algorithm-enabled review of CGM data.

Methods

Data were gathered from a weekly RPM program for 302 pediatric patients with T1D at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. We created a customizable financial model to calculate the yearly marginal costs and revenues of providing diabetes education. We consider a baseline or status quo scenario and compare it to two different care delivery scenarios, in which routine appointments are supplemented with algorithm-enabled, flexible, message-based contacts delivered according to patient need. We use the model to estimate the minimum reimbursement rate needed for telemedicine contacts to maintain revenue-neutrality and not suffer an adverse impact to the bottom line.

Results

The financial model estimates that in both scenarios, an average reimbursement rate of roughly $10.00 USD per telehealth interaction would be sufficient to maintain revenue-neutrality. Algorithm-enabled RPM could potentially be billed for using existing RPM CPT codes and lead to margin expansion.

Conclusion

We designed a model which evaluates the financial impact of adopting algorithm-enabled RPM in a pediatric endocrinology clinic serving T1D patients. This model establishes a clear threshold reimbursement value for maintaining revenue-neutrality, as well as an estimate of potential RPM reimbursement revenue which could be billed for. It may serve as a useful financial-planning tool for a pediatric T1D clinic seeking to leverage algorithm-enabled RPM to provide flexible, more timely interventions to its patients.

'Much more convenient, just as effective': Experiences of starting continuous glucose monitoring remotely following Type 1 diabetes diagnosis

AIM

Initiating continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) shortly after Type 1 diabetes diagnosis has glycaemic and quality of life benefits for youth with Type 1 diabetes and their families. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic led to a rapid shift to virtual delivery of CGM initiation visits. We aimed to understand parents' experiences receiving virtual care to initiate CGM within 30 days of diagnosis.

METHODS

We held focus groups and interviews using a semi-structured interview guide with parents of youth who initiated CGM over telehealth within 30 days of diagnosis during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Questions aimed to explore experiences of starting CGM virtually. Groups and interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Participants were 16 English-speaking parents (age 43 ± 6 years; 63% female) of 15 youth (age 9 ± 4 years; 47% female; 47% non-Hispanic White, 20% Hispanic, 13% Asian, 7% Black, 13% other). They described multiple benefits of the virtual visit including convenient access to high-quality care; integrating Type 1 diabetes care into daily life; and being in the comfort of home. A minority experienced challenges with virtual care delivery; most preferred the virtual format. Participants expressed that clinics should offer a choice of virtual or in-person to families initiating CGM in the future.

CONCLUSION

Most parents appreciated receiving CGM initiation education via telehealth and felt it should be an option offered to all families. Further efforts can continue to enhance CGM initiation teaching virtually to address identified barriers.

An Evaluation of Point-of-Care HbA1c, HbA1c Home Kits, and Glucose Management Indicator: Potential Solutions for Telehealth Glycemic Assessments

During the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer in-person clinic visits resulted in fewer point-of-care (POC) HbA1c measurements. In this sub-study, we assessed the performance of alternative glycemic measures that can be obtained remotely, such as HbA1c home kits and Glucose Management Indicator (GMI) values from Dexcom Clarity. Home kit HbA1c (n = 99), GMI, (n = 88), and POC HbA1c (n = 32) were collected from youth with T1D (age 9.7 ± 4.6 years). Bland-Altman analyses and Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (ρ_c) were used to characterize the agreement between paired HbA1c measures. Both the HbA1c home kit and GMI showed a slight positive bias (mean difference 0.18% and 0.34%, respectively) and strong concordance with POC HbA1c (ρ_c = 0.982 [0.965, 0.991] and 0.823 [0.686, 0.904], respectively). GMI showed a slight positive bias (mean difference 0.28%) and fair concordance (ρ_c = 0.750 [0.658, 0.820]) to the HbA1c home kit. In conclusion, the strong concordance of GMI and home kits to POC A1c measures suggest their utility in telehealth visits assessments. Although these are not candidates for replacement, these measures can facilitate telehealth visits, particularly in the context of other POC HbA1c measurements from an individual.

Monitoring of paediatric type 1 diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews recent developments in methods used to monitor paediatric type 1 diabetes (T1D), including an examination of the role of glycated haemoglobin (haemoglobin A1c) and its limitations for long-term assessment of glycaemia in individual patients, self-monitoring of blood glucose, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems and ketone monitoring.

RECENT FINDINGS

Monitoring of glycemia and ketones, when indicated, is a cornerstone of paediatric T1D management and is essential to optimize glycaemic control. Ongoing technological advancements have led to rapid changes and considerable improvement in the methods used to monitor glucose concentrations in people with T1D. As a result of recent innovations that have enhanced accuracy and usability, CGM is now considered the optimal method for monitoring glucose concentrations and should be introduced soon after diagnosis of T1D.

SUMMARY

Patients/families and healthcare providers must receive comprehensive education and proper training in the use of CGM and interpretation of the vast amounts of data. Future challenges include ensuring equal access to and optimizing clinical use of CGM to further improve T1D care and outcomes.

Advancements and future directions in the teamwork, targets, technology, and tight control-the 4T study: improving clinical outcomes in newly diagnosed pediatric type 1 diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The benefits of intensive diabetes management have been established by the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial. However, challenges with optimizing glycemic management in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) remain across pediatric clinics in the United States. This article will review our Teamwork, Targets, Technology, and Tight Control (4T) study that implements emerging diabetes technology into clinical practice with a team approach to sustain tight glycemic control from the onset of T1D and beyond to optimize clinical outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

During the 4T Pilot study and study 1, our team-based approach to intensive target setting, education, and remote data review has led to significant improvements in hemoglobin A1c throughout the first year of T1D diagnosis in youth, as well as family and provider satisfaction.

SUMMARY

The next steps include refinement of the current 4T study 1, developing a business case, and broader implementation of the 4T study. In study 2, we are including a more pragmatic cadence of remote data review and disseminating exercise education and activity tracking to both English- and Spanish-speaking families. The overall goal is to create and implement a translatable program that can facilitate better outcomes for pediatric clinics across the USA.

Psychosocial Needs for Newly Diagnosed Youth with Type 1 Diabetes and Their Families

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To synthesize findings from studies published within the last 5 to 10 years and recruiting families of children with new-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D).

RECENT FINDINGS

Children can establish glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) trajectories in the new-onset period that may persist for up to a decade. Demographic factors, family conflict, and diabetic ketoacidosis at the time of diagnosis may be risk factors for sub-optimal child HbA1c, while new immune modulating therapies and a treatment approach that combines advanced technologies and remote patient monitoring may improve child HbA1c. Nonetheless, recent trials in the new-onset period have largely overlooked how treatments may impact families' psychosocial functioning and longitudinal observational studies have been limited. The new-onset period of T1D is an important time for research and clinical intervention, though gaps exist specific to families' psychosocial needs. Filling these gaps is essential to inform clinical management and standard of care guidelines and improve outcomes.

Barriers and Facilitators to Diabetes Device Adoption for People with Type 1 Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Diabetes technology (insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitoring, automated insulin delivery systems) has advanced significantly and provides benefits to the user. This article reviews the current barriers to diabetes device adoption and sustained use, and outlines the known and potential facilitators for increasing and sustaining device adoption.

RECENT FINDINGS

Barriers to diabetes device adoption continue to exist at the system-, provider-, and individual-level. Known facilitators to promote sustained adoption include consistent insurance coverage, support for providers and clinics, structured education and support for technology users, and device user access to support as needed (e.g., through online resources). Systemic barriers to diabetes device adoption persist while growing evidence demonstrates the increasing benefits of newest devices and systems. There are ongoing efforts to develop evidence-based structured education programs to support device adoption and sustained use.

Improving Equitable Access to Continuous Glucose Monitors for Alabama's Children with Type 1 Diabetes: A Quality Improvement Project

Background: Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are a tool that can reduce the burden of self-monitoring of glucose values in children and adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D), are associated with improved glycemic control, and are associated with reduced fear of hypoglycemia. Unfortunately, disparities in access to CGM exist and rates of CGM access in Alabama in 2019 were below national averages. We aimed to increase CGM access and reduce disparities in access by race, insurance status, and high-risk diabetes status. Methods: Stakeholder input identified barriers to CGM access and defined the existing process. Process changes were implemented and studied for effect. Data were collected from the electronic health record to track rates of CGM access in patients aged 2 years and above with T1D for >3 months. Results: For the eligible population, rates of CGM access increased from a baseline of 50% to 82%. Rates for CGM access in patients with high-risk T1D increased from 34% to 85%. Disparity in CGM access for non-Hispanic Whites and non-Hispanic Blacks decreased from 18% to 6%. Disparity in CGM access for privately insured and Medicaid-insured patients decreased from 38% to 12%. Conclusions: Targeted quality improvement projects using stakeholder input can increase access to diabetes technology while reducing disparities. As technology advances, concerted efforts are needed to ensure equitable access to evolving therapies for all patients with T1D.

A New Technology-Enabled Care Model for Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes

In July 2018, pediatric type 1 diabetes (T1D) care at Stanford suffered many of the problems that plague U.S. health care. Patient outcomes lagged behind those of peer European nations, care was delivered primarily on a fixed cadence rather than as needed, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) were largely unavailable for individuals with public insurance, and providers' primary access to CGM data was through long printouts. Stanford developed a new technology-enabled, telemedicine-based care model for patients with newly diagnosed T1D. They developed and deployed Timely Interventions for Diabetes Excellence (TIDE) to facilitate as-needed patient contact with the partially automated analysis of CGM data and used philanthropic funding to facilitate full access to CGM technology for publicly insured patients, for whom CGM is not readily available in California. A study of the use of CGM for patients with new-onset T1D (pilot Teamwork, Targets, and Technology for Tight Control [4T] study), which incorporated the use of TIDE, was associated with a 0.5%-point reduction in hemoglobin A1c compared with historical controls and an 86% reduction in screen time for providers reviewing patient data. Based on this initial success, Stanford expanded the use of TIDE to a total of 300 patients, including many outside the pilot 4T study, and made TIDE freely available as open-source software. Next steps include expanding the use of TIDE to support the care of approximately 1,000 patients, improving TIDE and the associated workflows to scale their use to more patients, incorporating data from additional sensors, and partnering with other institutions to facilitate their deployment of this care model.

Teamwork, Targets, Technology, and Tight Control in Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes: the Pilot 4T Study

CONTEXT

Youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) do not meet glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) targets.

OBJECTIVE

This work aimed to assess HbA1c outcomes in children with new-onset T1D enrolled in the Teamwork, Targets, Technology and Tight Control (4T) Study.

METHODS

HbA1c levels were compared between the 4T and historical cohorts. HbA1c differences between cohorts were estimated using locally estimated scatter plot smoothing (LOESS). The change from nadir HbA1c (month 4) to 12 months post diagnosis was estimated by cohort using a piecewise mixed-effects regression model accounting for age at diagnosis, sex, ethnicity, and insurance type. We recruited 135 youth with newly diagnosed T1D at Stanford Children's Health. Starting July 2018, all youth within the first month of T1D diagnosis were offered continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) initiation and remote CGM data review was added in March 2019. The main outcomes measure was HbA1c.

RESULTS

HbA1c at 6, 9, and 12 months post diagnosis was lower in the 4T cohort than in the historic cohort (-0.54% to -0.52%, and -0.58%, respectively). Within the 4T cohort, HbA1c at 6, 9, and 12 months post diagnosis was lower in those patients with remote monitoring than those without (-0.14%, -0.18% to -0.14%, respectively). Multivariable regression analysis showed that the 4T cohort experienced a significantly lower increase in HbA1c between months 4 and 12 (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

A technology-enabled, team-based approach to intensified new-onset education involving target setting, CGM initiation, and remote data review statistically significantly decreased HbA1c in youth with T1D 12 months post diagnosis.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring Initiation Within First Year of Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis Is Associated With Improved Glycemic Outcomes: 7-Year Follow-Up Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate long-term glycemic outcomes of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) initiation within the first year of type 1 diabetes diagnosis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients with type 1 diabetes (N = 396) were divided into three groups: 1) CGM (CGM use within 1 year of diabetes diagnosis and continued through the study), 2) no-CGM (no CGM use throughout the study), and 3) new-CGM (CGM use after 3 years since diabetes diagnosis). Patients were followed up to 7 years.

RESULTS

A1c was significantly lower in the CGM compared with the no-CGM group throughout 7 years of follow-up (least squares mean A1c values: 6 months, 7.3% vs. 8.1%; 1 year, 7.4% vs. 8.6%; 2 years, 7.7% vs. 9.1%; 3 years, 7.6% vs. 9.3%; 4 years, 7.4% vs. 9.6%; 5 years, 7.6% vs. 9.7%; 6 years, 7.5% vs. 10.0%; and 7 years, 7.6% vs. 9.8%; for all, P < 0.001) adjusting for age at diagnosis, sex, and insulin delivery method.

CONCLUSIONS

CGM initiation within first year of type 1 diabetes diagnosis results in long-term improvement in A1c.

Does introduction of continuous glucose monitoring at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes increase uptake in children and adolescents?

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether introduction of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1D), leads to greater uptake and continuation at 12 and 24 months, in a population-based pediatric diabetes clinic.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

All T1D children and adolescents diagnosed in the 12 months following full government subsidization of CGM were offered CGM from diagnosis at Women's and Children's Hospital, SA (Cohort 1). Uptake and continuation of CGM was compared to those diagnosed in the preceding year, who were started on CGM after diagnosis, but otherwise had identical diabetes management (Cohort 2). Demographic and clinical data were collected prospectively. The primary outcome variable was CGM wear >75% of the time at 12 and 24 months.

RESULTS

In Cohort 1, 84% were started on CGM at diagnosis. 88% had commenced CGM by 12 months and 90% by 24 months. In Cohort 2, CGM was started on average 10 months after diagnosis (range 1-25 months), with 81% started on CGM within 24 months of subsidization. At 24 months, 78% of Cohort 1 and 66% of Cohort 2 were wearing CGM >75% of the time (p = 0.26), higher than the WCH Clinic as a whole (58%). There was no difference in HbA1c between cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Starting CGM at diagnosis of T1D is feasible and well received by families, with high uptake across all ages. Although CGM continuation (wearing CGM >75% of the time) was slightly higher in Cohort 1 than Cohort 2, this did not reach statistical significance.

Feasibility and Impact of Remote Glucose Monitoring Among Patients With Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes: Single-Center Pilot Study

Background

Caregivers of children with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes (T1D) maintain close contact with providers for several weeks to facilitate rapid adjustments in insulin dosing regimens. Traditionally, patient glucose values are relayed by telephone for provider feedback, but digital health technology can now enable the remote sharing of glucose data via mobile apps.

Objective

The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of remote glucose monitoring in a population of children and adolescents with newly diagnosed T1D and to explore whether remote monitoring alters habits for self-review of glucose data or perceived ease of provider contact in this population as compared to a nonrandomized control group.

Methods

Data were collected from families who chose to participate in remote monitoring (intervention group) as well as from patients receiving usual care (control group). The intervention group received Bluetooth-capable glucose meters and Apple iPod Touch devices. Patient-generated glucose data were passively relayed from the meter to the iPod Touch and then to both the electronic health record (EHR) and a third-party diabetes data platform, Tidepool. The principal investigator reviewed glucose data daily in the EHR and Tidepool and contacted the participants as needed for insulin dose adjustments during the time between hospital discharge and first clinic appointment. Families in the control group received usual care, which involved keeping written records of glucose values and contacting the diabetes team daily by telephone to relay data and receive treatment recommendations. A total of 40 families (20 for the intervention group and 20 for the control group) participated in the study. All families were surveyed at 1 month and 6 months regarding self-review of glucose data and ease of contacting the diabetes team.

Results

Patient-generated glucose data were remotely accessible for 100% of the participants via Tidepool and for 85% via the EHR. Survey data indicated that families in the intervention group were more likely than those in the control group to review their glucose data using mobile health apps after 1 month (P<.001), but by 6 months, this difference had disappeared. Perceived ease of contacting the clinical team for assistance was lower for the intervention group after 6 months (when receiving usual care) in comparison to during the intervention period (P=.48) and compared with a control group who did not have exposure to remote monitoring (P=.03).

Conclusions

Remote glucose monitoring is feasible among pediatric patients with newly diagnosed T1D and may be associated with the earlier adoption of mobile health apps for self-management. The use of broadscale remote monitoring for T1D in the future will depend on improved access to Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices for all patients, improved interoperability of mobile health apps to enable data transfer on Android as well as Apple devices, and new provider workflows to handle large-scale panel management based on patient-generated health data.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04106440; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04106440

7. Diabetes Technology: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2022

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc22-SPPC), are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc22-SINT). Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Early Initiation of Intermittently Scanned Continuous Glucose Monitoring in a Pediatric Population With Type 1 Diabetes: A Real World Study

BACKGROUND

Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems early in the course of diabetes has the potential to help glycemic management and to improve quality of life (QoL). No previous research has examined these outcomes in children-adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who use intermittently scanned CGM (isCGM) starting within the first month after diagnosis.

AIM

To evaluate the impact of isCGM early after T1D diagnosis, on metabolic control and QoL, comparing a group who started the use of the device within one month from the onset with another one who started at least one year later.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Patients who used isCGM within 1 month from T1D diagnosis were enrolled in group A; those who didn't have the device during the first year were considered as control group (group B). HbA1c and total daily insulin were evaluated at 3 (T1), 6 (T2) and 12 (T3) months post-baseline (T0, diabetes onset), QoL after 1 year. In group A, isCGM glucose metrics were also recorded.

RESULTS

85 patients were enrolled in group A and 67 patients in group B. In group A isCGM was well accepted during follow up: no patient dropped out; percentage of time with active sensor was in mean > 87%; number of scans/day remained stable. QoL was higher in group A than in group B both in children-adolescents (p<0.0001) and in parents (p 0.003). Group A presented lower HbA1c during the first year after diagnosis (p<0.001), and this data correlated with glucose management indicator (GMI), time in range (TIR) and mean glucose. The honeymoon period lasted more in group A than in B (p 0.028). Furthermore, the mean hypoglycemia duration decreased during follow-up (p 0.001) in group A.

CONCLUSIONS

Early use of isCGM, starting within the first month after diagnosis, improves metabolic control and QoL in pediatric patients with T1D.

Patterns of Continuous Glucose Monitor Use in Young Children Throughout the First 18 Months Following Type 1 Diabetes Diagnosis

Objective: To describe sociodemographic and parent psychosocial characteristics associated with patterns of continuous glucose monitor (CGM) use across the first 18 months post-type 1 diabetes (T1D) diagnosis among young children. Methods: One hundred fifty-seven parent-child dyads enrolled in a behavioral intervention for parents of young children (1-6 years) newly diagnosed with T1D. Parents reported on baseline sociodemographic characteristics and psychosocial functioning; child CGM use was assessed at five time points during the first 18 months post-diagnosis. Results: Most participants (81.8%) used CGM at least once. Four CGM trajectories emerged (always, later/stable, inconsistent, and never). Participants with private insurance were more likely to be in the always, later/stable, or inconsistent groups versus the never group. Youth in the always and later/stable groups had lower mean HbA1c at 18 months than those in the never group. Conclusions: Given the health benefits of CGM, further exploration of barriers to CGM use in families with public health insurance is needed. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02527525.

Clinically Serious Hypoglycemia Is Rare and Not Associated With Time-in-range in Youth With New-onset Type 1 Diabetes

CONTEXT

Early initiation of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is advocated for youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Data to guide CGM use on time-in-range (TIR), hypoglycemia, and the role of partial clinical remission (PCR) are limited.

OBJECTIVE

Our aims were to assess whether 1) an association between increased TIR and hypoglycemia exists, and 2) how time in hypoglycemia varies by PCR status.

METHODS

We analyzed 80 youth who were started on CGM shortly after T1D diagnosis and were followed for up to 1-year post diagnosis. TIR and hypoglycemia rates were determined by CGM data and retrospectively analyzed. PCR was defined as (visit glycated hemoglobin A1c) + (4*units/kg/day) less than 9.

RESULTS

Youth were started on CGM 8.0 (interquartile range, 6.0-13.0) days post diagnosis. Time spent at less than 70 mg/dL remained low despite changes in TIR (highest TIR 74.6 ± 16.7%, 2.4 ± 2.4% hypoglycemia at 1 month post diagnosis; lowest TIR 61.3 ± 20.3%, 2.1 ± 2.7% hypoglycemia at 12 months post diagnosis). No events of severe hypoglycemia occurred. Hypoglycemia was rare and there was minimal difference for PCR vs non-PCR youth (54-70 mg/dL: 1.8% vs 1.2%, P = .04; < 54mg/dL: 0.3% vs 0.3%, P = .55). Approximately 50% of the time spent in hypoglycemia was in the 65 to 70 mg/dL range.

CONCLUSION

As TIR gradually decreased over 12 months post diagnosis, hypoglycemia was limited with no episodes of severe hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia rates did not vary in a clinically meaningful manner by PCR status. With CGM being started earlier, consideration needs to be given to modifying CGM hypoglycemia education, including alarm settings. These data support a trial in the year post diagnosis to determine alarm thresholds for youth who wear CGM.

'I was ready for it at the beginning': Parent experiences with early introduction of continuous glucose monitoring following their child's Type 1 diabetes diagnosis

AIM

This study aimed to capture the experience of parents of youth with recent onset Type 1 diabetes who initiated use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology soon after diagnosis, which is a new practice.

METHODS

Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with parents of youth with Type 1 diabetes who had early initiation of CGM as part of a new clinical protocol. Interviewers used a semi-structured interview guide to elicit feedback and experiences with starting CGM within 30 days of diagnosis, and the benefits and barriers they experienced when adjusting to this technology. Groups and interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed using content analysis.

RESULTS

Participants were 16 parents (age 44.13 ± 8.43 years; 75% female; 56.25% non-Hispanic White) of youth (age 12.38 ± 4.15 years; 50% female; 50% non-Hispanic White; diabetes duration 10.35 ± 3.89 months) who initiated CGM 11.31 ± 7.33 days after diabetes diagnosis. Overall, parents reported high levels of satisfaction with starting CGM within a month of diagnosis and described a high level of reliance on the technology to help manage their child's diabetes. All participants recommended early CGM initiation for future families and were committed to continue using the technology for the foreseeable future, provided that insurance covered it.

CONCLUSION

Parents experienced CGM initiation shortly after their child's Type 1 diabetes diagnosis as a highly beneficial and essential part of adjusting to living with diabetes.

Multi-Clinic Quality Improvement Initiative Increases Continuous Glucose Monitoring Use Among Adolescents and Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) use is associated with improved A1C outcomes and quality of life in adolescents and young adults with diabetes; however, CGM uptake is low. This article reports on a quality improvement (QI) initiative of the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative to increase CGM use among patients in this age-group. Ten centers participated in developing a key driver diagram and center-specific interventions that resulted in an increase in CGM use from 34 to 55% in adolescents and young adults over 19-22 months. Sites that performed QI tests of change and documented their interventions had the highest increases in CGM uptake, demonstrating that QI methodology and sharing of learnings can increase CGM uptake.

Algorithm-Enabled, Personalized Glucose Management for Type 1 Diabetes at the Population Scale: A Prospective Evaluation in Clinical Practice (Preprint)

Background

The use of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) is recommended as the standard of care by the American Diabetes Association for individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Few hardware-agnostic, open-source, whole-population tools are available to facilitate the use of CGM data by clinicians such as physicians and certified diabetes educators.

Objective

This study aimed to develop a tool that identifies patients appropriate for contact using an asynchronous message through electronic medical records while minimizing the number of patients reviewed by a certified diabetes educator or physician using the tool.

Methods

We used consensus guidelines to develop timely interventions for diabetes excellence (TIDE), an open-source hardware-agnostic tool to analyze CGM data to identify patients with deteriorating glucose control by generating generic flags (eg, mean glucose [MG] >170 mg/dL) and personalized flags (eg, MG increased by >10 mg/dL). In a prospective 7-week study in a pediatric T1D clinic, we measured the sensitivity of TIDE in identifying patients appropriate for contact and the number of patients reviewed. We simulated measures of the workload generated by TIDE, including the average number of time in range (TIR) flags per patient per review period, on a convenience sample of eight external data sets, 6 from clinical trials and 2 donated by research foundations.

Results

Over the 7 weeks of evaluation, the clinical population increased from 56 to 64 patients. The mean sensitivity was 99% (242/245; SD 2.5%), and the mean reduction in the number of patients reviewed was 42.6% (182/427; SD 10.9%). The 8 external data sets contained 1365 patients with 30,017 weeks of data collected by 7 types of CGMs. The rates of generic and personalized TIR flags per patient per review period were, respectively, 0.15 and 0.12 in the data set with the lowest average MG (141 mg/dL) and 0.95 and 0.22 in the data set with the highest average MG (207 mg/dL).

Conclusions

TIDE is an open-source hardware-agnostic tool for personalized analysis of CGM data at the clinical population scale. In a pediatric T1D clinic, TIDE identified 99% of patients appropriate for contact using an asynchronous message through electronic medical records while reducing the number of patients reviewed by certified diabetes care and education specialists by 43%. For each of the 8 external data sets, simulation of the use of TIDE produced fewer than 0.25 personalized TIR flags per patient per review period. The use of TIDE to support telemedicine-based T1D care may facilitate sensitive and efficient guideline-based population health management.

A Decade of Disparities in Diabetes Technology Use and HbA1c in Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes: A Transatlantic Comparison

OBJECTIVE

As diabetes technology use in youth increases worldwide, inequalities in access may exacerbate disparities in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). We hypothesized that an increasing gap in diabetes technology use by socioeconomic status (SES) would be associated with increased HbA1c disparities.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants aged <18 years with diabetes duration ≥1 year in the Type 1 Diabetes Exchange (T1DX, U.S., n = 16,457) and Diabetes Prospective Follow-up (DPV, Germany, n = 39,836) registries were categorized into lowest (Q1) to highest (Q5) SES quintiles. Multiple regression analyses compared the relationship of SES quintiles with diabetes technology use and HbA1c from 2010-2012 to 2016-2018.

RESULTS

HbA1c was higher in participants with lower SES (in 2010-2012 and 2016-2018, respectively: 8.0% and 7.8% in Q1 and 7.6% and 7.5% in Q5 for DPV; 9.0% and 9.3% in Q1 and 7.8% and 8.0% in Q5 for T1DX). For DPV, the association between SES and HbA1c did not change between the two time periods, whereas for T1DX, disparities in HbA1c by SES increased significantly (P < 0.001). After adjusting for technology use, results for DPV did not change, whereas the increase in T1DX was no longer significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Although causal conclusions cannot be drawn, diabetes technology use is lowest and HbA1c is highest in those of the lowest SES quintile in the T1DX, and this difference for HbA1c broadened in the past decade. Associations of SES with technology use and HbA1c were weaker in the DPV registry.

7. Diabetes Technology: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2021

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-SPPC), are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction (https://doi.org/10.2337/dc21-SINT). Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Weight Management in Youth with Type 1 Diabetes and Obesity: Challenges and Possible Solutions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review highlights challenges associated with weight management in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Our purpose is to propose potential solutions to improve weight outcomes in youth with T1D.

RECENT FINDINGS

A common barrier to weight management in T1D is reluctance to engage in exercise for fear of hypoglycemia. Healthcare practitioners generally provide limited guidance for insulin dosing and carbohydrate modifications to maintain stable glycemia during exercise. Adherence to dietary guidelines is associated with improved glycemia; however, youth struggle to meet recommendations. When psychosocial factors are addressed in combination with glucose trends, this often leads to successful T1D management. Newer medications also hold promise to potentially aid in glycemia and weight management, but further research is necessary. Properly addressing physical activity, nutrition, pharmacotherapy, and psychosocial factors while emphasizing weight management may reduce the likelihood of obesity development and its perpetuation in this population.

Hypoglycemia unawareness and autonomic dysfunction in diabetes: Lessons learned and roles of diabetes technologies

Impaired awareness of hypoglycemia (IAH) is a reduction in the ability to recognize low blood glucose levels that would otherwise prompt an appropriate corrective therapy. Identified in approximately 25% of patients with type 1 diabetes, IAH has complex pathophysiology, and might lead to serious and potentially lethal consequences in patients with diabetes, particularly in those with more advanced disease and comorbidities. Continuous glucose monitoring systems can provide real-time glucose information and generate timely alerts on rapidly falling or low blood glucose levels. Given their improvements in accuracy, affordability and integration with insulin pump technology, continuous glucose monitoring systems are emerging as critical tools to help prevent serious hypoglycemia and mitigate its consequences in patients with diabetes. This review discusses the current knowledge on IAH and effective diagnostic methods, the relationship between hypoglycemia and cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy, a practical approach to evaluating cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy for clinicians, and recent evidence from clinical trials assessing the effects of the use of CGM technologies in patients with type 1 diabetes with IAH.

Improving Clinical Outcomes in Newly Diagnosed Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes: Teamwork, Targets, Technology, and Tight Control-The 4T Study

Many youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) do not achieve hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) targets. The mean HbA1c of youth in the USA is higher than much of the developed world. Mean HbA1c in other nations has been successfully modified following benchmarking and quality improvement methods. In this review, we describe the novel 4T approach-teamwork, targets, technology, and tight control-to diabetes management in youth with new-onset T1D. In this program, the diabetes care team (physicians, nurse practitioners, certified diabetes educators, dieticians, social workers, psychologists, and exercise physiologists) work closely to deliver diabetes education from diagnosis. Part of the education curriculum involves early integration of technology, specifically continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), and developing a curriculum around using the CGM to maintain tight control and optimize quality of life.