Building the 2022 Diabetes Technology Practice Competencies Using Modified Delphi Methodology

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to construct professional competencies for diabetes technology use in various care settings reflecting the mission of the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES). Method: ADCES convened a core team of nationally representative diabetes technology experts to develop professional competencies specifically related to diabetes technology use. A modified Delphi methodology, which comprised 4 rounds, was used for consensus development among these experts. First, experts developed and arrived at a consensus on the initial draft of competencies. They also identified health care professionals and staff essential for effective technology integration in various diabetes care settings. A survey was completed by diabetes technology experts that are members of ADCES. Next, a multidisciplinary focus group was conducted to gain feedback. Finally, the edited competencies were distributed via survey for feedback by diabetes technology experts from various disciplines. Results: One hundred four diabetes technology experts in the United States participated in the final survey, representing various health care professions and clinical settings. A final set of 94 competencies across 7 domains was determined. Conclusion: Modified Delphi methodology is an effective way to utilize multidisciplinary expertise to develop diabetes technology-related competencies for diabetes care professionals and staff in a variety of settings. These competencies align with the mission of ADCES to empower diabetes care and education specialists to expand the horizons of innovative education, management, and support.