Technology Use in Transition-Age Patients With Type 1 Diabetes: Reality and Promises

J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2016 May 3;10(3):662-8. doi: 10.1177/1932296816632543. Print 2016 May.

Abstract

Youth with chronic illnesses have the greatest risk for a decline in their health management during transition-age. Because of this demonstrated and well-known issue, research has focused on how to improve the transition of care process. Despite the increasing number of technological devices on the market and the advances in telemedicine modalities available to patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D), the utilization of technology is still suboptimal among patients of transition-age (ages 13-25). This article reviews the available resources, patterns of use in transition-age youth, and explores opportunities to advance technology use in transitioning patients with T1D from pediatric to adult care.

Keywords: adolescence; continuous glucose monitor; emerging adulthood; insulin pump; telemedicine; transition; type 1 diabetes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring / instrumentation
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / blood*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Insulin Infusion Systems
  • Male
  • Self Care / instrumentation*
  • Telemedicine / instrumentation
  • Transition to Adult Care*
  • Young Adult