Research Project

FAMILIA-DT: Fostering Awareness and Management in Latinx Individuals with Innovations in Technology and Access to Diabetes Care

Research Team

Lead Researchers:

Dr. Joo Kim, Health Sciences

Collaborators:

Chia Chiu, Director of Engineering-Diabetes Research & Technology, Medtronic

Student Team:

Abbey Fischer, BS Public Health*
Abigail Virnig, BS Health Administration*
Marwa Mulk, BS Environmental and Occupational Health*
Gladdys Salazar
Serbin Cruzada
Axel Delgado
Christian Bedolla
Jacob Slorzano

Note: names marked with an asterisk (*) indicate current students

Funding

Funding Organization: Medtronic
Funding Program:

SYNOPSIS

Our study is focused on the utilization of diabetic technology as a way for individuals in the Latinx community to monitor their diabetes.
Utilized a qualitative survey and thematic analysis grounded in multiple health-based theories.
Previously identified barriers around this issue seem to be based upon cost, language barriers, or healthcare access.
Used a holistic approach to explore the other reasons as to why a barrier might exist, such as cultural values, cultural norms, and a healthcare provider relationship built on trust.

Abstract

The backdrop of the study on Breaking Down Barriers to Diabetic Monitoring Technology, encompassing glucose monitors/continuous glucose monitors and insulin pump therapy/insulin pumps within Latinx Communities, involves a pressing need for improved access and utilization of these technologies. The Latinx population faces significant challenges in effectively adopting and benefiting from diabetic monitoring devices due to various barriers. These barriers might include limited access to healthcare resources, language barriers, cultural differences, financial constraints, and inadequate education about the benefits of these advanced monitoring technologies. Understanding and addressing these obstacles are essential steps toward enhancing the integration and usage of glucose monitoring and insulin pump therapy among Latinx individuals managing diabetes. This study aims to delve deeper into these barriers, identify solutions, and foster improved adoption of diabetic monitoring technology within the Latinx community.

Motivation/Research Problem

Familia-DT table chart describing themes, barriers, solutions, and example quotes

Research Questions and Research Objectives

This mixed method study integrates qualitative interviews with healthcare
providers and a literature review focusing on the unique characteristics of
the Latinx population in relation to adopting Automated Insulin Delivery (AID)
systems in hospital settings.

Qualitative component of 10 participant survey interviews to gather direct insight from healthcare providers.
Literature review component consisted of examining theoretical frameworks and practical models.
The COM-B model states that behavior change occurs when individuals
possess the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation to engage in the
desired behavior.

Research Methods

The qualitative interviews allowed us insight to the physician perspective,
however the literature reviews demonstrated how much cultural values
influence decision making.

Our team found several cultural values prevalent in Latinx communities that could influence the adoption of diabetes monitoring technology.
Understanding these cultural values is crucial for promoting the effective
use of diabetes monitoring technology within the Latinx community.

Research Results and Deliverables

Ten physicians, ranging in specialty and workplace, responded to our
qualitative survey. The key findings after interpreting the data are as follows:

What physicians perceive as barriers do NOT line up with what patients perceive as barriers.
The physicians expressed a belief that they should not be held solely reliable for educating their patients.
Familismo (loyalty to family), Fatalismo (belief that life is predetermined), Confianza (building trust with healthcare professionals)

Commercialization Opportunities

Application: Diabetic technology as a way to manage blood glucose levels; technology such as CGMs, insulin pens, insulin pumps, etc.
Key Values: Building a better relationship between the healthcare provider and their patient so that more Latinx individuals could utilize diabetic technology.

Research Timeline

Start Date: October 2023
End Date: August 2024