“What is it like to live with a CGM?”: A qualitative study on type 1 diabetes patients’ experiences

Abstract

Background: The use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is increasing in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) due to its convenience and usefulness for glucose management. Purpose: This qualitative study explores the experiences and challenges of patients with T1DM regarding their CGM use. Methods: Twenty-nine participants were recruited from a hospital and an online community between May 26 and October 5, 2022. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, and subsequently transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework for thematic analysis. Results: The participants’ ages ranged from 19 to 64 years, and the duration of CGM use varied from 2 to 84 months. The qualitative results revealed three themes: typical diabetes care, tied to CGM for life, and conditions for better use. The immediate monitoring capability of CGM was highlighted as a key advantage, liberating individuals from the fear of hypoglycemia and enhancing their overall quality of life. However, the participants also encountered inevitable inconveniences and shared common concerns regarding the accuracy of CGM and the financial burden associated with CGM costs. Conclusions: Healthcare providers and policymakers must address the concerns of patients with T1DM and implement educational activities to bridge the gap between self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and CGM.