A Framework for Optimizing Technology-Enabled Diabetes and Cardiometabolic Care and Education: The Role of the Diabetes Care and Education Specialist

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this article is to present a framework for optimizing technology-enabled diabetes and cardiometabolic care and education using a standardized approach. This approach leverages the expertise of the diabetes care and education specialist, the multiplicity of technologies, and integration with the care team. Technology can offer increased opportunity to improve health outcomes while also offering conveniences for people with diabetes and cardiometabolic conditions. The adoption and acceptance of technology is crucial to recognize the full potential for improving care. Understanding and incorporating the perceptions and behaviors associated with technology use can prevent a fragmented health care experience. Conclusion Diabetes care and education specialists (DCES) have a history of utilizing technology and data to deliver care and education when managing chronic conditions. With this unique skill set, DCES are strategically positioned to provide leadership to develop and deliver technology-enabled diabetes and cardiometabolic health services in the rapidly changing healthcare environment.

Clouds and Silver Linings: COVID-19 Pandemic Is an Opportune Moment to Democratize Diabetes Care Through Telehealth

“…For new technologies to be suitable for telehealth, this will also require user input representing all communities during the design and development phases to make the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) culturally appropriate, understandable, sticky, and of value. There is also an opportunity for currently underutilized Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (formerly referred to as diabetes educators) to play a larger role in expanding access to evidence-based remote care and education using telehalth 8,26,27 At a wider level, increasing the diversity of clinicians, improving healthcare coverage, and reorganizing the clinical workflow to transition to deliver more needs-based care and management with a move away from routine appointments may also add value.…”

From the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists: The Role of the Diabetes Care and Education Specialist as a Champion of Technology Integration

“…As the role of the diabetes care and education specialist has evolved from educator to full partner in diabetes care, so too has the role and impact of technology in clinical care and self-management. 9-16 Diabetes and cardiometabolic self-management is enhanced by connected devices, including meters, continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps, automated insulin delivery systems, smart pens, other wearable devices, data platforms, apps, and virtual coaching. Data from these devices and platforms are used to inform shared decision-making and guide medical and behavioral advice and targeted education services.…”

“…These recommendations are then transformed into actionable, individualized guidance for people with diabetes through shared decision-making. 9,10 The diabetes care and education specialist contributes in a more global way to the optimization of care, education, and support by developing, implementing, and evaluating diabetes technology integration and improving training processes and workflows. 9,10 The vision for the specialty is reflected in the updated ADCES7 Self-Care Behaviors framework, initially published in 2008 6 and updated in April 2020.…”

“…Danatech is also a source of on-demand and real-time courses, certificate programs, and continuing education in this field. 9,10 ADCES also provides the opportunity for members to connect with peers about diabetes technology through the use of the Diabetes Technology Community of Interest.…”

“…This framework guides the diabetes care and education specialist to advocate for technology integration and to implement and optimize technology-enabled services following a standardized method. 9…”