Supporting self-management and clinic attendance in young adults with type 1 diabetes: development of the D1 Now intervention

Abstract

Background: Self-management of type 1 diabetes (T1D) is complex and can be particularly challenging for young adults. This is reflected in the high blood glucose values and rates of clinic non-attendance in this group. There is a gap for a theory-based intervention informed by key stakeholder opinions to support and improve self-management in young adults with T1D. Purpose: The aim of the work was to systematically co-develop an evidence-based and stakeholder-led intervention to support self-management and clinic engagement in young adults living with T1D in Ireland. Co-development was led by the Young Adult Panel. Methods: The Behaviour Change Wheel was used to guide the development. Five evidence sources were used to inform the process. An iterative co-design process was used with the Young Adult Panel. Initial intervention components were refined and feasibility tested using qualitative methods. Results: Environmental restructuring, education and training were selected as appropriate intervention functions. The co-design process, along with qualitative refinement and feasibility work, led to the final intervention content which consisted of 17 behaviour change techniques. The final D1 Now intervention consists of three components: a support worker, an agenda setting tool and an interactive messaging service. Conclusions: The D1 Now intervention is now at pilot evaluation stage. Its transparent and systematic development will facilitate evaluation and future replications.