Research Project

Fostering Awareness and Management in Latinx Individuals with Innovations in Technology and Access to Diabetes Care

Research Team

Lead Researchers:

Dr. Joo Kim

Collaborators:

Student Team:

Gladdys Salazar
Serbin Cruzada
Axel Delgado
Christian Bedolla
Abbey Fischer
Jacob Slorzano

Funding

Funding Organization: Medtronic
Funding Program:

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

Research Questions and Research Objectives

Primary Objectives

Identify and analyze the multifaceted barriers that hinder the adoption and usage of diabetic monitoring technology including glucose monitor/continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump therapy/insulin pump technology among Latinx groups.
Engage with targeted Latinx communities to understand their unique needs, perspectives, and cultural considerations.
Develop an intervention to shift perspectives and behaviors within Latinx communities, encouraging the adoption of technology for diabetes monitoring including glucose monitor/continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump therapy/insulin pump technology.

Specific Research Questions

What are the primary barriers that hinder the adoption and usage of diabetic monitoring technology in Latinx communities?
How do cultural and community-specific factors impact the utilization of diabetic monitoring technology including glucose monitors/continuous glucose monitors and insulin pump therapy/insulin pumps?
What strategies and interventions can be developed to address these barriers and promote equitable utilization of diabetic monitoring technology including glucose monitors/continuous glucose monitors and insulin pump therapy/insulin pumps within Latinx communities?
How can we develop an effective intervention to change perspectives and behavior within Latinx communities, promoting the adoption of technology for diabetes monitoring including glucose monitors/continuous glucose monitors and insulin pump therapy/insulin pumps?

Research Methods

Methodology

Research Design

This research will utilize qualitative interviews. This comprehensive approach will enable a thorough exploration of the challenges and opportunities related to diabetic monitoring technology utilization among minority communities.

Sampling

The target population for this research comprises individuals from Latinx communities. The sampling strategy will be designed to ensure representation and accessibility. Recruitment processes will be carried out with cultural sensitivity and community engagement in mind.

Data Collection

Data will be collected through:

Qualitative interviews to explore personal experiences and attitudes.

Data collection procedures will adhere to ethical standards and privacy regulations, and efforts will be made to engage with participants in a culturally sensitive manner.

Data Analysis

Qualitative Analysis

For qualitative data collected through interviews, thematic analysis will be employed. Coding processes and theme development will be carried out with reference to theoretical frameworks.

Integration of Data

Data integration will allow for a comprehensive understanding of the barriers identified through both quantitative and qualitative data analysis.

Research Results and Deliverables

Expected Outcomes

Anticipated findings include a detailed understanding of the specific barriers that hinder the use of diabetic monitoring technology (glucose monitors/continuous glucose monitors and insulin pump therapy/insulin pumps) within Latinx communities. This will provide data-driven insights into disparities in access and utilization, which can be used to generate actionable policy recommendations and intervention strategies.

Conclusion and Future Steps

In conclusion, this research project, driven by the Social Cognitive Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior, aims to identify and address barriers to the utilization of diabetic monitoring technology ((glucose monitors/continuous glucose monitors and insulin pump therapy/insulin pumps) in Latinx communities. It aims to reduce health disparities and promote equitable utilization of this technology, thereby improving health outcomes within Latinx communities.

Research Timeline

Start Date: October 2023
End Date: August 2024