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On a scale of 1-5 how informed is your T1D health care team about the latest T1D technology and medications? (1 = not at all informed, 5 = very informed)
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5. I have only two requirements for selecting a physician. One, that they practice evidence-based medicine. And two, that they be reasonably current in the state of the art of their particular specialty. Obviously, bed-side manner counts little. Others may disagree, but those are my only two requirements. 💯
I said, “I am unsure.” Discussion of latest technology only comes up when I mention it. My Endocrinology APRN is focused on my blood glucose readings, and making adjustments on my insulin pump. Not much discussion of technology.
I’m not sure if they know about new technologies and medications but they often don’t tell me about them. With research developments they certainly don’t tell me. I just found out about carb counting.
My endo office is always recruiting/conducting clinical studies. I appreciate that knowledge and benefit from it.
I have NEVER had a doctor who ever mentioned new technology or advances on T1D.
Usually know but office is so busy and Nurse Practitioners come and go so it’s better if I am interested in something that I bring it up.
I am usually the one to bring up new information, with accompanying paperwork, about diabetes technology. My NP is always appreciative. Yes, it’s a little role reversal but it’s fine.
My Endo C-PA is very well informed. As far as tech I use they staff have inside liasons with 2 companies. They also have assisted in the past when I had issues with my med supply company about getting supplies for my pump & CGM in a timely manner.
I think a better question is how knowledgeable are they about the applications of new technologies. They usually are informed, but they are hesitant to apply new tech as they are unfamiliar with real-world experience.
They are part of a research and teaching hospital complex. So, yes they are very informed.
I’m seen at the UW Diabetes Institute in Seattle. I’d hope they were in top of things 😀
Technology usually leads me to tell them but treatment options like using T2d drugs in combination with insulin for T1d management comes from them.
My T1D health care team consists of more than 1 individual. Therefore, I would answer that SOME of them are very well informed about the latest T1D technology and others not so much.
It’s hard to tell – usually ready to discuss if I bring it up, but they don’t bring it up themselves.
Mine is very up to date. Not sure if she still is the head of Metabolism and Endocrine Research at the Medical University where I see her.
They might be a ‘5’, but I don’t see that level of engagement during our meetings or disscussions
He keeps me updated, if I can’t update him first.
In my 25 years seen 5 endocrinologists, only 1 seemed well versed in total care (at those medical trials for TYPE2 out of control). By that I mean did teaching as well as more modern insulins. His referral seemed fine but new, changed docs due to job/insurance changes. (my 1st endo~ said I was too old to be a TYPE 1, won’t say more…).The last seemed technically up to par but since the trials I kind of took control with my diabetic care. She was more hands off but did get me pumping. Since moving I looked for a doctor for convenience, while he generally refers all TYPE 1s to a local hospital (and marginally controlled TYPE2s) he’s my only health care provider. He and the staff seem comfortable with my a1Cs (last 3 in low 6 range) and agreed to my request for metformin. Knows nothing of an insulin pump or CGM, however easily prescribed me for the newest Medtronic system, takes care of my “other” healthcare needs.
But I’m constantly reading literature on diabetes, periodicals, of medicines, and tech. We do discuss these.
My endocrinologist is type 1 himself so I think that plays a role when it comes to being informed of diabetic technology and advancements.
My endocrinologist is well aware except for Symlin (By Amylin) this may be due to the demographics of his patients. Low income neighborhood- The only place I could find an Endocrinologist. Symlin not covered by insurance.