Real-world user acceptability of the FreeStyle Libre: A pilot study on human factors and technology acceptance

A. Gautam, S. Philip, M. J. MacLeod, A. Cadzow, A. J. Graveling

Research output: Contribution to journalAbstractpeer-review

Abstract

Aims: To explore the human factors influencing the user accept-ability of the FreeStyle Libre (FSL), and its impact on glycaemic control and quality of life. Methods: Participants with type 1 diabetes using the FSL for at least three months completed a User Experience questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score (HADS) and provided information regarding disease specific quality of life. Results: A total of 42 participants (mean age 42 ± 14 years, 18 males) were included in this pilot observational study. There was significant improvement in the glycosylated haemoglobin A1c (mean 9.07 ±18.59mmol/mol, p < 0.001) and anxiety score (p=0.04) after using the FSL. Most participants reported that the FSL improved their understanding of how food intake (88%) and physical activity (91%) affects their glucose level, and found the trend arrow to be useful in supporting them to adjust food intake(88%) and insulin dose (85%) to prevent hypoglycaemia. Scanning using the readers (100%) was easier than the phones (61%). 57%reported one or more skin reaction(s) at the site of sensor insertion. The sensors most commonly caused redness (30%), itching (19%)and rash (8%).High level of satisfaction was noted in a variety of human factors including overall experience, ease of use, comfort, performance and effectiveness of the FSL (favourable responses ranging from74% to 100%). Conclusion: The pilot study showed high real-world user accept-ability of the FSL. Human factors associated with the uptake of the FSL were convenience of use and an improved understanding of factors affecting blood glucose levels. The FSL supported diabetes selfcare and improved glycaemic control and anxiety. SUPPORTING INFORMATION The conference poster for this abstract is available online in the Supporting Information section at the end of this page
Original languageEnglish
Article numberP274
Pages (from-to)106-107
Number of pages2
JournalDiabetic Medicine
Volume37
Issue numberS1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2020

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