Author:
Eer Audrey Sing Yi,Ho Rebecca Chia Yee,Hearn Tracey,Hachem Mariam,Freund Megan,Burchill Luke James,Atkinson-Briggs Sharon,Singh Satpal,Eades Sandra,O’Brien Richard Charles,Furler John Stuart,O’Neal David Norman,Story David Andrew,Zajac Jeffrey David,Braat Sabine,Brown Alex,Clarke Phillip,Sinha Ashim Kumar,McLean Anna Gerardina,Twigg Stephen Morris,Ekinci Elif Ilhan
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is highly prevalent within the Indigenous Australian community. Novel glucose monitoring technology offers an accurate approach to glycaemic management, providing real-time information on glucose levels and trends. The acceptability and feasibilility of this technology in Indigenous Australians with T2DM has not been investigated.
Objective
This feasibility phenomenological study aims to understand the experiences of Indigenous Australians with T2DM using flash glucose monitoring (FGM).
Methods
Indigenous Australians with T2DM receiving injectable therapy (n = 8) who used FGM (Abbott Freestyle Libre) for 6-months, as part of a clinical trial, participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the interviews was performed using NVivo12 Plus qualitative data analysis software (QSR International).
Results
Six major themes emerged: 1) FGM was highly acceptable to the individual; 2) FGM’s convenience was its biggest benefit; 3) data from FGM was a tool to modify lifestyle choices; 4) FGM needed to be complemented with health professional support; 5) FGM can be a tool to engage communities in diabetes management; and 6) cost of the device is a barrier to future use.
Conclusions
Indigenous Australians with T2DM had positive experiences with FGM. This study highlights future steps to ensure likelihood of FGM is acceptable and effective within the wider Indigenous Australian community.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
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