In-Person Versus Virtual Insulin Pump Training Experiences among People with Diabetes in 6 European Countries

ABSTRACT

Background and Aims: While insulin pump training has historically been conducted in person, the COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a rise in virtual alternatives. The present study aims to examine the perceived effectiveness of in-person versus online pump training among people with diabetes in Europe. Method(s) From April-May 2022, 2,457 people with type 1 diabetes in France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, and UK took an online survey in which they indicated their use of pump therapy. Respondents who started using a new pump model in the last year indicated their pump training method (n = 366) and those who received training reported their confidence in pump use after training (n = 356). Confidence scores were calculated as the proportion of users selecting 9 or 10 on a 10-point scale. Result(s) The majority of pump users trained in person with an HCP or pump company representative (76%). One quarter of pump users trained virtually with a professional (24%), and 12% completed a self-guided training tutorial online. Those who completed a self-guided tutorial were significantly less confident using their pump than those who trained with a professional in person (34% vs. 51%, p = 0.021) or virtually (34% vs. 55%, p = 0.006). No differences in confidence were observed between those who trained with a professional in person or virtually (51% vs. 55%). Conclusion(s) These findings suggest that virtual training may be an effective alternative to in-person methods, though professional guidance is critical to building confidence in pump use. Further research is needed to identify improvements to online, self-led trainings to increase proficiency among new pump users.