Codevelopment of a model of care for adults living with cystic fibrosis-related diabetes

BackgroundCystic fibrosis (CF) related diabetes affects up to half of all adults with CF and is associated with higher morbidity and mortality. Our aim is to codevelop an ideal model of care that integrates diabetes technology and better meets the needs of adults living with the condition to improve attendance, engagement, service satisfaction, and clinical outcomes.MethodsUsing qualitative research methods, we evaluated disease perceptions, barriers, and enablers to optimal CF-related diabetes management and service delivery. Integration of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was also explored. An initial broad purposive consumer survey was followed by focus groups with end-users. Grounded theory approach was utilized with major problem areas identified then explored, coded, and grouped into requisites for an "ideal model of care" for adults living with CF-related diabetes.ResultsTwo key themes emerged (i) an ideal model of care consisted of a dual-specialty service co-led by endocrinology and CF physicians and supported by diabetes educator and CF dietitian with a goal to provide consistent and personalized diabetes management and (ii) CGM was acceptable for use in adults with CF-related diabetes with many perceived benefits and should be integrated into the model of care. Barriers to optimizing glycemic control included diet, finger-prick testing, reduced access to CGM, and pulmonary exacerbations. End-user feedback on CGM was overwhelmingly positive with regard to operability. CGM was also identified as a tool that could be used to engage, educate, and empower adults living with CF-related diabetes and facilitate constructive and personalized clinical decision-making by healthcare providers.ConclusionFor adults living with CF, a diagnosis of diabetes is associated with increased treatment burden. Our findings suggest an "ideal model of care" for CF-related diabetes would be co-led by endocrinology services integrated within a pre-existing CF service, incorporating CGM.