Feasibility and acceptability of the use of flash glucose monitoring encountered by Indigenous Australians with type 2 diabetes mellitus: initial experiences from a pilot study

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is highly prevalent within the Indigenous Australian community. Novel glucose monitoring technology offers an accurate approach to glycaemic management, providing real-time information on glucose levels and trends. The acceptability and feasibilility of this technology in Indigenous Australians with T2DM has not been investigated. This feasibility phenomenological study aims to understand the experiences of Indigenous Australians with T2DM using flash glucose monitoring (FGM). Indigenous Australians with T2DM receiving injectable therapy (n = 8) who used FGM (Abbott Freestyle Libre) for 6-months, as part of a clinical trial, participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the interviews was performed using NVivo12 Plus qualitative data analysis software (QSR International). Six major themes emerged: 1) FGM was highly acceptable to the individual; 2) FGM's convenience was its biggest benefit; 3) data from FGM was a tool to modify lifestyle choices; 4) FGM needed to be complemented with health professional support; 5) FGM can be a tool to engage communities in diabetes management; and 6) cost of the device is a barrier to future use. Indigenous Australians with T2DM had positive experiences with FGM. This study highlights future steps to ensure likelihood of FGM is acceptable and effective within the wider Indigenous Australian community.