Online diabetes management program may improve patient engagement according to pilot study results from the Center for Connected Health

BOSTON, MA, MARCH 18, 2009 – New data from a recent pilot study conducted by the Center for Connected Health, a division of Partners HealthCare, suggest that an online diabetes management program, Diabetes Connected Health, may lead to improved patient knowledge, engagement and accountability, as well as improved patient provider communication. This study was published in the current issue of the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology (Volume 3, Issue 2, March 2009).

Based on the results of this pilot study, the Center for Connected Health has initiated a randomized clinical trial involving 200 patients from six primary care practices affiliated with either Massachusetts General Hospital or Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

“This study provided valuable feedback from diabetes patients and providers on the utility, benefits and limitations of a web-based diabetes management program,” said Joseph C. Kvedar, MD, Director, Center for Connected Health. “Although the mean number of readings sent per month decreased over time, the number of comments posted per month increased, indicating ongoing engagement.”

The pilot study included seven patients with type 2 diabetes at Massachusetts General Hospital. Study participants received access to a secure website that stored and graphed glucose readings uploaded remotely by the patients using a standard glucometer. Both patients and providers had access to the website, where the data could be viewed, analyzed and discussed.

Mean glucose levels declined over the three month pilot period, as did self-reported HbA1c levels, which indicate the level of blood glucose over time. Providers participating in the study reported that the Diabetes Connected Health program increased their confidence in adjusting medication based on remote glucose readings submitted by their patients. Patients also rated the website and provided feedback on the program, which will be used to enhance the platform moving forward.

“Diabetes Connected Health has the potential to truly impact the way diabetes care is delivered and to improve both clinical and economic outcomes,” added Alice Watson, MD, MPH, Corporate Manager, Center for Connected Health, and a co-author of the paper. “Self-monitoring of blood glucose may have a greater impact when patient data can be shared with a provider in a timely manner, leading to treatment changes and enhanced patient education and motivation.”

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, 23.6 million children and adults in the United States, or 7.8% of the population, have diabetes.

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