Digital Health Coaching + Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Type 2 Diabetes

The trial aims to identify the most effective telehealth approach for managing type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions in individuals with physical disabilities. Participants will receive either digital health coaching, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with clinician support, or a combination of both. The researchers seek to determine which method best lowers blood sugar levels, reduces diabetes-related stress, and improves overall health. This trial suits individuals with type 2 diabetes, a physical disability, and at least one other chronic condition, such as high blood pressure or asthma. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative telehealth solutions that could significantly enhance health management.

A previous study found continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices easy for users to handle. These devices send blood sugar information to healthcare providers, enabling remote diabetes monitoring. Many users expressed high satisfaction with CGM, giving it positive reviews. This feedback suggests that CGM is generally safe and easy to use.

Digital health coaching, which provides personalized support for lifestyle changes, is also considered safe. It focuses on improving habits related to diet and exercise, which are generally safe activities.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it combines digital health coaching with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) teleconsults, offering a personalized approach to managing Type 2 diabetes. Unlike standard treatments that often rely on medication and periodic doctor visits, this approach provides ongoing support and real-time data tracking. Digital health coaching helps individuals set and achieve lifestyle goals through regular phone check-ins, while CGM teleconsults allow healthcare providers to tailor treatments based on detailed glucose patterns. This integrated method could lead to better understanding and management of individual glucose levels, potentially improving overall health outcomes for those with Type 2 diabetes.

This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches for managing type 2 diabetes. Participants in one arm will receive digital health coaching, which research has shown can lower A1C levels by an average of 0.32%. One study found that digital coaching improved A1C levels by 13% and reduced diabetes-related stress by 22%. In another arm, participants will use continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with online consultations. Studies have shown that CGM can lower A1C levels by 0.42% and help maintain blood sugar levels within the target range. A third arm will combine digital coaching with CGM, and evidence suggests even better blood sugar control, with A1C reductions between 0.4% and 1.5%. Together, these methods may offer a comprehensive way to manage type 2 diabetes effectively.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰