Advances in endocrinology technologies have a huge impact on the lives of patients. There’s a wide selection of advanced equipment capable of enhancing the quality of care and patient outcomes. From smart meters and the latest insulin pumps to glucose monitoring (CGM), medical device manufacturers are delivering game-changers faster.
According to Dr. Adarsh Jha, an experienced endocrinologist, these new devices make life easier for patients and health practitioners. For diabetes care specialists like himself, the best thing about it is the availability of patient data. Although it can be a bit much volume-wise, the data improves patient monitoring. Multiple devices deliver critical information to physicians’ fingertips.
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The Latest Tech
With CGMs, there’s no more finger-pricking. Rather, patients conveniently check their blood sugar levels using a nice little sensor. The device does its job when inserted under the skin. It’s a big deal for patients relying on insulin to keep diabetes under control.
Another technology making a difference in endocrinology is telemedicine. It eliminates the need to visit the doctor’s office or healthcare facility for routine appointments. Instead, the patient gets in touch with the doctor via digital platforms. These virtual appointments are a welcome development for patients and physicians alike.
Then there are artificial pancreas systems. This technology is still relatively new, but Dr. Jha believes it’ll undoubtedly revolutionize diabetes management. Its role is to monitor glucose levels and optimize insulin delivery. To do this, the smart system brings together a glucose monitor and an insulin pump. That way, it adjusts insulin delivery automatically and accurately.
Jha says this revolutionary solution mimics a real pancreas. For diabetic patients, it’s like having a personal pancreas. He added that while there’s still room for more research on this incredibly promising tech, the potential benefits are huge.
Clinical Impact
One of the best things brought about by advancements in endocrinology tech is increased opportunities for connected care. Because of this, the adoption levels are high. An ever-increasing number of people with diabetes use pump and sensor technologies. CGM devices bring cost-effective benefits. They’re better than test strips.
On another level, physicians need to match the right devices to specific patients. So, the professionals must get a few things right before making the final call. Firstly, they should understand what manufacturers say the devices can do. Then, figure out what these technologies can do in practice.
The last thing doctors want is to see a device making a patient’s life harder. That’s why Dr. Jha says it’s super-important to determine how a device works in specific patients’ hands. What works for some diabetic patients may be problematic for others.
Devices worn throughout the day require careful assessment before prescribing. So, doctors rely on patients’ feedback about their experiences with specific medical devices. By all means, practitioners’ choices are patient-driven.
U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves these technologies. Some options available to patients include integrated insulin pumps. These solutions provide interoperability benefits, and they automate insulin delivery. And physicians need to educate patients about the devices.
It’d be problematic if patients weren’t aware of endocrinology tech that simplifies how they manage diabetes. Dr. Adarsh Jha noted that some patients don’t want to wear a device, creating a puzzle for doctors. In these cases, the doctor needs to discuss all the available options with the patient.
Jha believes practitioners should find creative ways to make patients agree to use a particular device. Letting them try it for a brief period is one way. Getting the patients to buy in makes a big difference. Proper consultation reduces the likelihood that a patient may abandon a device later on.
Integrating Devices into Endocrinology Practice
Thankfully, the availability of new technologies helps solve some of these challenges. By switching to alternatives, doctors can significantly improve clinical outcomes. Doing so also streamlines how they integrate new tech into practice.
Jha says physicians shouldn’t relax once a patient gets a device. That’s the wrong way to deploy these solutions. Regular check-ins are a must. It’d be best to iron out any issues to make sure that a particular device fits a patient’s diabetes management needs and lifestyle.
When the aim is to receive alerts or prevent lows, the practitioner typically picks specific devices. However, the failure to consider what the patients actually prefer can lead to device abandonment. It’s common for people with diabetes to stop using a device because their skin gets irritated, and they don’t feel comfortable wearing one. Also, an adhesive may not stick properly, or there’s a sensor change requirement.
In some cases, patients may ditch the device due to too frequent alarms or cost. That’s why it’s important to test and discuss the impact of particular devices. Some people find an artificial pancreas a bit tedious. Having a frank chat with the doctor makes it easier to pick what works best. Something that fits one’s lifestyle and medical needs is key to improving clinical outcomes.
About
Based in East Hartford, Connecticut, Dr. Adarsh Jha has more than two decades of experience in endocrinology. He helps many patients suffering from diabetes, thyroid disorders, and osteoporosis.