Study of A Cell-Phone System to Improve Health of Youth With Diabetes

Pilot Study of A Cell-Phone System to Improve Health of Youth With Diabetes

FL3X is an integrated diabetes self-management system that incorporates modern cell phone technology with behavioral modification approaches to improve diabetes self-management in high-risk youth. Utilizing such approaches will increase adherence to diabetes management behaviors and improve glucose control by providing increased autonomy over diabetes care.

FL3X utilizes diabetes care providers (diabetes educators) as health coaches to employ behavioral modification techniques including motivational interviewing and problem solving skills training. Coaches help adolescents and their families learn these techniques to improve diabetes self management behaviors and diabetes care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• type 1 diabetes with duration at least 12 months
• between ages 12-16 years at registration
• poor glycemic control (A1c 8.0-13.0%)
• parent/guardian willing to also participate
• minority race/ethnicity
• low income

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant (if female)
• diabetes type 2 or gestational
• no health insurance
• Pre-existing systemic chronic disease (drug abuse, cancer, psychiatric conditions)