{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: 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.
{Author}: Eer ASY;Ho RCY;Hearn T;Hachem M;Freund M;Burchill LJ;Atkinson-Briggs S;Singh S;Eades S;O'Brien RC;Furler JS;O'Neal DN;Story DA;Zajac JD;Braat S;Brown A;Clarke P;Sinha AK;McLean AG;Twigg SM;Ekinci EI;
{Journal}: BMC Health Serv Res
{Volume}: 23
{Issue}: 1
{Year}: 2023 Dec 8
{Factor}: 2.908
{DOI}: 10.1186/s12913-023-10121-6
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>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.<BR><B>OBJECTIVE: </B>This feasibility phenomenological study aims to understand the experiences of Indigenous Australians with T2DM using flash glucose monitoring (FGM).<BR><B>METHODS: </B>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).<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>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.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>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.