How can new technologies help people with diabetes improve self-management?

Abstract

Background: We have developed an automated interactive conversational program, called Digital Diabetes, to improve diabetes self-management. Methods: Participants upload their blood glucose results via cellphone and "converse" with the program on topics critically important for diabetes self-management including blood glucose monitoring, nutrition, physical activity and medication taking. Findings: A published randomized study of adults with type 2 diabetes has demonstrated significantly improved glycemic control and mental health functioning. Program use was high and medication costs were also lower for intervention participants. Program evaluation has further demonstrated how this program influences people to change multiple diabetes self-care behaviors. Discussion: The presentation will discuss how the program provides people with very valuable information, enhances self-efficacy and motivation, teaches new strategies and helps establish routines. It also leads to other actions to improve health and has some important mental health benefits The presentation will discuss the wider applications and potential scalability of this program as well as the further development of this program for a mobile health program and the evaluation of this new program.