Implementation of Technology-Delivered Diabetes Self-care Interventions in Clinical Care: a Narrative Review

This article provides an overview of the methods and results of studies examining the implementation of technology-delivered diabetes self-care interventions into clinical care. We focus specifically on patient-facing behavioral interventions delivered with technology (e.g., text messaging, apps, websites).Recent FindingsEleven articles were included in the review. Most studies (n = 9) examined barriers and facilitators to implementation, while about half (n = 5) integrated the intervention into clinical care and evaluated implementation and/or effectiveness. Only six studies applied a theory or framework. The most common determinants of implementation were time constraints for clinic staff, familiarity with technology, knowledge of the interventio n, and perceived value. We found substantial variation in implementation outcomes, including which were reported, how they were assessed, and the results. In the four studies that evaluated effectiveness, hemoglobin A1c improved.SummarySuccessful implementation of technology-delivered interventions has the potential to transform healthcare delivery and improve diabetes health on a population level. Promising strategies to address common determinants of implementation include appointing a clinic champion, developing staff training and educational materials, and adapting intervention processes to the clinic context. Future research should evaluate these implementation strategies to understand when and how they impact outcomes...
Source: Current Diabetes Reports - Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research