In a recent article, Evert and colleagues described the development and implementation of an educational program for the initiation of real-time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology for personal use, not three-day CGMS diagnostic studies. The education program was designed to meet the needs of patients managing their diabetes with either diabetes medications or insulin pump therapy in an outpatient diabetes education center using a team-based approach. Observational research, complemented by literature review, was used to develop an educational program model and teaching strategies. Diabetes educators, endocrinologists, CGM manufacturer clinical specialists, and patients with diabetes were also interviewed for their clinical observations and experience. The program followed a progressive educational model. First, patients learned in-depth about real-time CGM technology by attending a group presensor class that provides detailed information about CGM. This presensor class facilitated self-selection among patients concerning their readiness to use real-time CGM. If the patient decided to proceed with real-time CGM use, CGM initiation was scheduled, using a clinic-centered protocol for both start-up and follow-up.

WHAT THE STUDY MAY MEAN TO YOU AS A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: Successful use of real-time CGM involved more than just patient enthusiasm or interest in a new technology. Channeling patient interest into a structured educational setting that included the benefits and limitations of real-time CGM helped to manage patient expectations.

WHAT THE STUDY MAY MEAN TO YOU AS A PATIENT: The approach sounds promising. Now the authors need to conduct a clinical trial to see how the methodology pays off.

A Evert et al. Continuous glucose monitoring technology for personal use: an educational program that educates and supports the patient. Diabetes Education, 2009;35:565-580.