Overview: A growing disparity in diabetes technology access
New analyses indicate a troubling trend: people from ethnic minority backgrounds in England are less likely to have access to the latest diabetes technology, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), even though they are more likely to live with diabetes. This gap raises concerns about equity in healthcare delivery and the real-world impact of advanced management tools on outcomes for diverse communities.
Why technology matters for diabetes management
Devices like CGMs provide real-time glucose data, trends, and alerts that help people with diabetes make informed treatment decisions. For patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who rely on insulin, CGMs can reduce hypoglycemic events, improve glycemic control, and support more flexible daily living. Access to these tools is not just a convenience—it can materially affect long-term health, hospital admissions, and quality of life.
The study’s core findings
Researchers examined healthcare data across England and found that ethnic minority groups are underrepresented among CGM users relative to their share of the diabetes population. The data suggest that while the prevalence of diabetes tends to be higher in some minority communities, access to the newest devices lags behind that of majority populations. The reasons are multifaceted, spanning affordability, awareness, referral patterns, and structural barriers within the healthcare system.
Barriers contributing to unequal access
- Financial hurdles: Even when devices are available, out-of-pocket costs, insurance gaps, and funding constraints can deter uptake for some families and individuals.
- Knowledge and referral gaps: Patients may not receive timely information about CGMs or may not be offered this option during routine care due to implicit biases or limited capacity in busy clinics.
- Healthcare system navigation: Navigating prescriptions, training, and ongoing device support can be more challenging for patients with language barriers or lower health literacy.
- Trust and cultural considerations: Past experiences with healthcare systems and cultural beliefs about technology can influence willingness to adopt new diabetes management tools.
Implications for health outcomes
Limited access to CGMs and related technologies can exacerbate health disparities. Without consistent, real-time data, some patients may experience poorer glycemic control, higher risk of complications, and greater distress related to managing the condition. In communities with higher diabetes prevalence, equitable access to technology is crucial to flattening outcome gaps over time.
What can be done to close the gap
Experts recommend a multi-pronged approach to improve equity in diabetes tech access:
- Policy and funding: Ensure universal access to essential diabetes technologies through public funding or subsidized programs, prioritizing high-need communities.
- Provider education and outreach: Train healthcare professionals to recognize biases, discuss CGM options early, and provide culturally appropriate education about device use and benefits.
- Community engagement: Partner with community organizations to disseminate information, address concerns, and support families in navigating device setup and maintenance.
- Language and literacy support: Offer multilingual resources, simplified training materials, and patient-friendly guides to improve understanding and uptake.
- Data-driven monitoring: Track device adoption by ethnicity to monitor progress, identify gaps, and adjust strategies accordingly.
Looking ahead
Addressing the disparity in diabetes technology access is essential for achieving true health equity in England. While technology has the potential to transform diabetes management, it only benefits those who can access and effectively use it. Stakeholders—from policymakers to clinicians and community leaders—must collaborate to ensure that advancements in diabetes care are shared equitably across all ethnic groups.
Conclusion: A call for inclusive innovation
As the NHS and other healthcare bodies continue to champion precision and personalized medicine, it is imperative that gains in diabetes technology reach everyone who could benefit. Bridging the access gap for ethnic minority communities will require sustained commitment, transparent reporting, and concrete actions that put patients’ needs at the center of innovation.
