Patients With Diabetes Using a New Glucose Meter With Blood Sugar Mentor and Dynamic Color Range Indicator Features Show Improved Interpretation and Willingness to Act on Blood Glucose Results (ASCEND Study)

Abstract

Background We examined whether dynamic color range indicator (DCRI) and blood sugar mentor (BSM) features in a new blood glucose meter could improve interpretation of results and encourage patient action. Methods One hundred and thirty three people with type 2 (T2D) ( n = 73) or type 1 diabetes (T1D) ( n = 60) evaluated information first without and then with DCRI or BSM guidance using interactive exercises. Results Subjects improved their ability to categorize results into low, in range, or high glycemic ranges by 29% (T2D) and 22% (T1D) (each P < .001). There was significantly greater willingness to act on high and low results shown with DCRI or BSM screens. Subjects also expressed a high degree of satisfaction with these features. Conclusions Use of DCRI and BSM in this meter may help patients improve their diabetes management decisions.