Use of a Meter With Color-Range Indicators and a Mobile Diabetes Management App Improved Glycemic Control and Patient Satisfaction in an Underserved Hispanic Population: "Tu Salud"-A Randomized Controlled Partial Cross-Over Clinical Study

Area of Science:

• Diabetes Management
• Digital Health Technology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes disproportionately affects underserved Hispanic populations.
• Effective diabetes management tools are crucial for improving glycemic control.
• Mobile health applications show promise in supporting self-management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical value of the OneTouch Verio Flex glucose meter with its Spanish-language mobile app.
• To assess the impact on glycemic control in an underserved Hispanic population with type 2 diabetes.
• To determine the durability of effects and user satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• 81 participants used the meter and app for 12 weeks, followed by an additional 12 weeks.
• A control group (n=39) used their own glucose meters without an app.
• Control participants later crossed over to use the new meter and app.

Main Results:

• Test subjects achieved a 1.0% mean reduction in A1C after 12 weeks (P <0.001), significantly greater than controls (P = 0.045).
• Improvements in A1C were sustained over 24 weeks and observed in crossover participants.
• Mean blood glucose decreased, results in range increased, and user satisfaction improved, irrespective of numeracy skills.

Conclusions:

• The OneTouch meter and Spanish-language app facilitated sustained glycemic control improvement in an underserved population.
• These digital health tools were well-received and may benefit individuals with low numeracy and literacy.
• The study highlights the potential of accessible technology in addressing health disparities in diabetes care.