RESEARCHERS have discovered that people with Type 1 diabetes can achieve the same positive outcomes using advanced insulin technology when trained by their primary care providers (PCPs) or through telehealth as they would by visiting a specialist in person.
The findings mark a significant breakthrough in expanding access to cutting-edge diabetes care, particularly for those in rural or remote areas.
“This demonstrates that automated insulin delivery (AID) technology like iLet can be used effectively by PCPs and through telehealth, making this life-saving technology available to more patients—no matter where they live,” said the authors.
The study revealed that 97% of participants achieved healthy blood sugar levels, with 64% reaching even better targets. Training through telehealth or primary care delivered results comparable to in-person training by specialists, underscoring the potential for broader access to advanced diabetes care.
“We recognised that, despite both being medical professionals, obtaining some of the necessary resources for her care proved to be a challenge,” said the lead authors. “If we were experiencing this difficulty, it was clear that many others likely faced the same issues.”
The researchers found that 75.3% of counties in the United States lack a single endocrinologist, while 96% have at least one primary care provider. This disparity highlights the critical role PCPs and telehealth can play in diabetes care.
“The latest study proves that with the right training, primary care providers can deliver the same high-quality care using advanced technology without the need for specialised clinics or expensive travel,” the team added. “By embracing telehealth, this technology can reach even more patients who face barriers to care.”
This research paves the way for millions of people with diabetes to better manage their condition, reduce complications, and live healthier lives.
“As diabetes care evolves, we must find ways to make the best treatments accessible to as many people as possible. Primary care and telehealth are key to achieving that goal.”
Reference
Oser SM et al. Assessing the ilet bionic pancreas deployed in primary care and via telehealth: a randomized clinical trial. Clin Diab. 2025;DOI:https://doi.org/10.2337/cd24-0104.
