Meta-Analysis of the Effect of the Use of Computer-Based Systems on the Metabolic Control of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate, through a meta-analysis study, whether the use of computer-based systems reported in the literature improves the metabolic control of diabetic patients. On the retrieved papers, a set of meta-analysis studies were performed: first the difference of HbA1c between cases and controls at follow-up was evaluated (sign test); then the difference between cases and controls in the total variation of HbA1c from the beginning to the end of the trial was considered (method of effect sizes). The latter methodology was reapplied also on three more homogeneous article subgroups. The sign test was performed on 16 papers: in two of them, the HbA1c level was higher in the intervention group than in the control group at follow-up: it is unlikely that this is a random occurrence (p < 0.01). The method of effect sizes was first applied to 13 papers, as in the others some needed data were missing: the results obtained showed a statistically significant amelioration of metabolic control in the intervention group in comparison to the control group (p < 0.01). A progressive reinforcement of this outcome was obtained on the trial subgroups. Our study supports the hypothesis that the use of computer-based systems can be an effective means of improving metabolic control. The differential benefit obtained in the amelioration of HbA1c does not justify, by itself, the applicability of such systems into clinical practice; additional investigations should be carried out to evaluate the enhancement of other clinical and organizational indicators.

Trends in A1C Concentrations Among U.S. Adults With Diagnosed Diabetes From 1999 to 2004

“…Therefore, it is conceivable that the concerted efforts of professional organizations and clinicians at improving glycemic control are bearing fruit. A variety of approaches can improve glycemic control (15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20). Learning whether these approaches or other factors may have positively impacted the recent trends in glycemic control could provide important lessons for effecting further improvements in glycemic control in the future.…”

The Effects of a Web-Based Intervention on the Physical Outcomes Associated with Diabetes Among Adults Age 60 and Older: A Randomized Trial

“…[25][26][27][28][29][30] This project, however, differs from prior studies because it was nurse-based, the recruitment process did not target patients with only poor glycemic control, and computer experience or computer literacy was not required for eligibility. Additionally, this study also disproves the myth that seniors will not be attracted to the Internet as a way of communication.…”

Computerized Knowledge Management in Diabetes Care

“…At least 2 other metaanalyses also found that the use of computer-based systems for patients with diabetes could be an effective means of improving metabolic control. 66,67 Healthcare executives and policymakers would probably like to obtain additional information about costs and more meticulous long-term data on patient acceptance and clinical utilization of the systems, because they are likely to be considering a purchase. Future studies should also include cost calculations of computerized interventions in diabetes care.…”