Flash glucose monitoring and continuous glucose monitoring among patients with coexisting diabetes and severe mental illness - a convergent mixed-methods study.

Abstract

Aim: Technology is seen as a potential tool to improve the management of diabetes although few studies have examined sensor use within psychiatric populations. This study investigated the integration of glucose sensors for patients' diabetes and severe mental illness.

Methods: The study applied a mixed methods convergent design with focus on glucose monitoring implementation. Quantitative data collected (n = 15) summarized patient characteristics and sensor use over time. Changes in HbA_1c levels were also monitored. Qualitative data was collected using semi-structured interviews and focus groups capturing the experiences of patients (n = 10) and clinicians (n = 7) respectively.

Results: Users utilized data from sensors to facilitate diabetes management although sensor use decreased over time. Analysis from patient interviews constructed three themes: 'Sensor use - improved awareness of blood glucose', 'Sensor use - promoting sharing of glucose readings', and 'Sensor use - increased visibility and public awareness of diabetes'. Focus groups with clinicians described two themes: 'Perceived treatment benefits gained from glucose sensors', and 'Treatment challenges posed by glucose sensors'.

Conclusion: Results indicated that sensors were accepted and meaningfully integrated into clinical practice within this population. Patients and clinicians were largely positive about the integration and usefulness of sensors in diabetes management although some challenges were described.