Group Visits for Type 1 Diabetes

This trial tests whether group medical appointments (also known as SMA Visits) can help underserved children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) manage their condition more effectively. Participants will attend shared medical appointments every three months over a year. The study aims to determine if this improves blood sugar control, self-management skills, and overall quality of life. Suitable candidates have had T1D for at least a year, rely on insulin injections, have public healthcare insurance, and have struggled to maintain stable blood sugar levels in the past year. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative care approaches that could enhance daily life for children with T1D.

The trial requires that participants do not use any non-insulin diabetes medications to control blood glucose levels. If you are taking such medications, you would need to stop them to join the study.

Previous studies have shown that shared medical appointments (SMAs) are safe and well-tolerated. Research indicates that SMAs, or group doctor visits, typically last 90 minutes or more and serve for regular check-ups or follow-up care. They have been used with diabetes patients, and no major safety issues have been reported.

A review of SMAs for diabetes patients found no significant negative effects, suggesting that these group visits are generally safe for people with diabetes. Although SMAs are not a medication or a new medical procedure, they provide an alternative way for patients to receive care and learn from each other.

Researchers are excited about the Group Visits for Type 1 Diabetes because they offer a fresh approach to managing the condition by incorporating shared medical appointments (SMAs). Unlike the traditional one-on-one appointments, these group visits allow underserved youth with Type 1 Diabetes to meet every three months alongside their caregivers and healthcare providers. This setup fosters peer support and shared learning, potentially leading to better disease management and improved outcomes. By creating a community environment, the hope is that patients will feel more supported and engaged in their care, which could translate to better adherence to treatment plans and improved overall health.

Research shows that shared medical appointments (SMAs), which participants in this trial may receive, can help people with diabetes. Studies have found that SMAs increase patient satisfaction and enhance skills for managing the condition. For those with type 1 diabetes, SMAs have been linked to better control of blood sugar levels. Patients often benefit from the group setting, which provides social support and shared learning. Evidence also suggests that SMAs can improve quality of life by making care more accessible and engaging.¹³⁴⁵⁶