BACKGROUND
Despite shown benefits of diabetes technologies for people living with diabetes, barriers to device education and uptake can prevent the realization of these potential benefits. DiabetesWise is an unbranded, data-driven online resource that tailors device recommendations based on preferences and priorities of people with insulin-requiring diabetes.
OBJECTIVE
To examine engagement with DiabetesWise and its correlates.
METHODS
A sample of 458 participants (Mage=37.1, SD=9.73; 66% female; 81% type 1 diabetes) with minimal diabetes device use at enrollment were invited to use DiabetesWise. Their website activity was tracked, and they completed online surveys. Chi-square and t-tests evaluated correlates of engagement.
RESULTS
Most participants logged into DiabetesWise at least once (69%), which was associated with increased likelihood of starting a new device within 6 months (13.7% vs. 1.5%, p=.005). Logging in was also associated with being female, having public/no insurance, having lower income, and receiving care in a private practice/community health setting. Nearly 38% logged in multiple times, which was more common for participants receiving diabetes care through primary care. Most who logged in used the Check Up tool to assess current device needs and preferences (85%), of whom 74% were using meter and injections. Most Check Up recommendations were for meter and pump (63%), followed by sensor and pump (35%), then sensors with smart pump (2%). Cost was the most frequent priority for device decisions (51%). Nearly half the participants who completed the Check Up reported at least moderate diabetes distress (41%).
CONCLUSIONS
DiabetesWise is an innovative, unbiased pathway to promote diabetes device education and awareness. Highest initial engagement was observed among people with fewer resources; repeated use was observed among those receiving diabetes care through primary care. DiabetesWise may help offset disparities in diabetes technology access and uptake.