Diabetes care through video consultations: Insights from people using insulin pump therapy and healthcare professionals-A longitudinal qualitative study.

AIMS: To explore expectations and experiences with video consultations of people with type 1 diabetes using insulin pump therapy and healthcare professionals (HCPs).

METHODS

An interpretive description approach was used in a longitudinal design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with people with diabetes and HCPs at two time points (T1 and T2). T1 interviews explored expectations prior to a randomised controlled trial. T2 interviews explored experiences with intervention group participants and HCPs. A reflexive thematic data analysis was employed.

RESULTS

In total, 33 interviews were conducted. Two themes for people with diabetes at T1 were: 'Is video inferior?-The fear of missing something' and 'Allows me to stay in my everyday life'. At follow-up interviews (T2): 'It is fine for smaller issues-but not for larger issues' and 'Are video consultations worth it?'. HCPs' themes at T1 were: 'Can video consultations increase empowerment?' and 'What can be done?-Something in-between a phone and an in-person consultation'. At follow-up interviews (T2): 'If carried out right, a lot can be done' and 'Obstacles for moving forward'.

CONCLUSIONS

Video consultations can potentially be a less disruptive form of consultation, allowing people with diabetes to stay in their everyday lives, especially for minor issues or minor treatment adjustments. Challenges, in terms of pre-visit preparation, might outweigh the benefits. Adjustment of clinical work is required to address people with diabetes' preferences for video consultations, guidance on preparation and requirements for participants.