Network Member Dr Tomás Griffin is pleased to announce a new publication for healthcare providers who want to use hybrid closed loop insulin pump systems. The UK’s Association of British Clinical Diabetologist’s Diabetes Technology Network (ABCD- DTN): Best practice guide for hybrid closed- loop therapy is designed to provide an overview of current hybrid closed- loop systems in use within the United Kingdom’s (UK) National Health Service. This guidance document will provide key information to health care providers about how to start hybrid closed loop pump therapy and how to build a service for hybrid closed loop pumps.
What is Hybrid Closed Loop Therapy?
A hybrid closed-loop insulin pump is a medical device that helps people with diabetes manage their glucose levels. This has also been referred to as an “artificial pancreas,” The pump consists of a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and an insulin pump, which are connected and work together to automatically regulate insulin delivery based on glucose readings. The pump uses an algorithm to continuously monitor the user’s glucose levels. It then adjusts insulin delivery accordingly, reducing the risk of high or low blood sugar levels. The user still needs to manually enter carbohydrate intake, and may need to make adjustments to the insulin delivery, but overall the hybrid closed-loop system offers improved glucose control compared to traditional insulin pump therapy.
The benefits of hybrid closed-loop insulin pump therapy include:
- Improved glucose control.
- Increased convenience: The system reduces the need for frequent manual insulin injections and glucose testing, allowing people with diabetes to lead more active and convenient lifestyles.
- Decreased risk of hypoglycemia.
- Enhanced quality of life: With improved glucose control and increased convenience, people wit
h diabetes who use a hybrid closed-loop insulin pump may experience an improved quality of life and reduced stress. - Better overall health: Improved glucose control can lead to better overall health outcomes, including a lower risk of diabetic complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy.
- Decreased number of hospitalizations and decreased number of bed days occupied
This is an up-to-date guide that provides important practical guidance on the use of hybrid closed loop therapy for healthcare providers who plan to start hybrid closed loop insulin pump therapy. More information and the publication can found here
