Objective
This study aim to uncover T1D patient and provider receptivity to combined CGM-pump technology in the US to inform device investment/development efforts. Key objectives include:
-Assess values and priorities of T1D patients and providers when it comes to insulin delivery systems
-Uncover drivers to device adoption amidst current and future anticipated device advancements
-Identify barriers to adoption and trade-offs between current & future options and a combined CGM-pump system
Background Rationale
Optimal glycemic control remains critical for individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and recent advances in CGM and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems have significantly improved outcomes and quality of life. Current AID systems involve separate CGM and pump devices, which must be worn, inserted, and replaced independently—adding to the physical and psychological burden of diabetes management. Real-world uptake of AID systems is limited by device complexity, user discomfort, concerns about body image, and technical challenges—especially when products are sourced from multiple manufacturers. Combined CGM-pump devices offer a novel, simplified approach, potentially reducing device burden, improving discretion and comfort, and enhancing long-term adherence. Limited research exists around the interest from patients or prescribers in using/prescribing combined CGM-pump technology. This study aims to address gaps in understanding patient preferences for combined CGM-pump devices.
Description of Project
Optimal glycemic control remains critical for individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and recent advances in CGM and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems have significantly improved outcomes and quality of life. Current AID systems involve separate CGM and pump devices, which must be worn, inserted, and replaced independently—adding to the physical and psychological burden of diabetes management. Real-world uptake of AID systems is limited by device complexity, user discomfort, concerns about body image, and technical challenges—especially when products are sourced from multiple manufacturers. Combined CGM-pump devices offer a novel, simplified approach, potentially reducing device burden, improving discretion and comfort, and enhancing long-term adherence.
The Breakthrough T1D team has identified that there is limited existing research assessing patient or prescriber interest in combined CGM-pump technology. This study aim to uncover T1D patient and provider receptivity to combined CGM-pump technology to inform device investment/development efforts.
Qualitative interviews and quantitative web surveys will be fielded to T1D patients and providers in the US to gauge unmet needs, device priorities, and anticipated adoption of a combined CGM-pump technology.
Anticipated Outcome
- Determine US T1D providers' and patients' perspectives on the unmet needs when it comes to their current insulin delivery systems (e.g., using the Jobs-to-be-done framework)
- Identify key technology attributes that are most compelling to T1D providers and patients that would drive adoption
- Uncover main drivers and barriers to adoption of a combined CGM-pump technology from a provider and patient perspective
- Project the anticipated uptake of a combined CGM-pump technology amidst current device option and future anticipated technology advancements (e.g., smaller CGM pumps)
Results to be shared back with the T1D community through a peer-reviewed publication in a diabetes-focused journal.
Relevance to T1D
This study explores what people with T1D and their providers think about combining continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps into a single, easier-to-use device. By understanding their preferences, Breakthrough T1D hopes to support technologies that make diabetes management simpler, more comfortable, and better suited to real-life needs.