Shane O'donnell, Ireland

University College Dublin School of Sociology

Presenter of 1 Presentation

ACCESS ISSUES IN DIABETES TECHNOLOGY: THE CASE OF DO-IT-YOURSELF ARTIFICIAL PANCREAS SYSTEMS

Abstract

Background and Aims

Technology-enabled solutions have been discussed for many years as one of the most promising routes to improving clinical outcomes and reducing the burden associated with diabetes self-management. Growing impatient with both the direction and pace of industry-led innovation, people with diabetes (PwD) are increasingly turning to technology-enabled solutions which are off-label, user-driven and open-source, such as the “Do-it-Yourself Artificial Pancreas Systems” (DIYAPS).

Methods

Drawing on quantitative and qualitative data generated by the DIWHY survey which examines the motivations, barriers and retention factors of DIYAPS users (n=1058 from 34 countries), the aim of this study is to gain insights into the barriers and enablers to the wider adoption of DIYAPS.

Results

Study participants typically described two main challenges in their ’looping journey’: 1) accessing requisite components, such as CGM and compatible insulin pumps, and 2) technical challenges and perceptions associated with building and maintenance of a DIY closed-loop system. In both cases, the capacity to draw on social connections developed through participation in online communities as the Facebook group ‘Looped’ was key to overcoming many of these challenges. For example, many participants described how their (self-perceived) limited IT literacy was often overcome through the online advice and support of more ‘tech-savvy’ community members and how they often felt an enhanced sense of agency and empowerment after successfully closing the loop for themselves.

Conclusions

Social connectedness is a key driver in the uptake of DIYAPS solutions.

Hide