Adoption of Insulin Pumps and Continuous Glucose Monitors: Patient Perceptions of Utility and Usability

This thesis aims to capture patient perceptions of adoption and use of insulin pumps (IP) and continuous glucose monitors (CGM). The first two phases were dedicated to identify barriers and benefits of adoption of IP and CGM respectively. Four themes were identified in the insulin pump study: 1. the lack of value add to management, 2. the psychosocial impact, 3. requirement of a support structure during adoption, 4. need for behavioural readjustment for success. In the CGM phase, three themes were identified: 1. frustrations, 2. data promotes and proactivity, 3. cost/benefit analysis as a substantial barrier to adoption.In the third phase, a usability study of the five insulin pumps on the North American market was conducted. Ultimately, the Tandem pump caused the fewest use errors that could result in significant safety risk. Based on the results, recommendations to manufacturers and for tailoring diabetes training protocols were made.M.H.Sc