Technology-Enabled Collaborative Care for Diabetes and Mental Health

Bridging Gaps, Enhancing Wellbeing: Examining the Effectiveness of the Technology-Enabled Collaborative Care for Diabetes and Mental Health (TECC-DM) Model

Managing both type 2 diabetes and mental health challenges can be difficult, and many people do not receive care that supports both. This study looks at how virtual health coaching and support from interdisciplinary care teams can help people better manage their health.

The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of a virtual health coaching program for adults living with type 2 diabetes and mental health challenges compared to usual care. The Technology-Enabled Collaborative Care for type 2 Diabetes and Mental health (TECC-DM) program includes weekly coaching calls, support from an interdisciplinary care team, and online tools to aid self-management. The findings from this study will be used to help improve services for people who have type 2 diabetes and co-occurring mental health symptoms.

This research will:

Implement and evaluate a relation-driven care solution that integrates physical and mental healthcare for adults living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and comorbid mental health challenges. Applying the principles of relation-centred care which expands patient-centred care to all team members involved, the TECC-DM model was co-designed to improve collaborative care between and across sectors, settings, and professionals. This model enhances the core relationship between provider and patients while empowering the person to be an active agent in their health and care.

Assess the effectiveness of the TECC-DM intervention (n=80) on patient-relevant (quality of life) and provider-level (satisfaction) outcomes compared to usual care (n=80). Drawing upon established feasibility data, and delivered in addition to existing diabetes care, the TECC-DM model of care may address important health system challenges in primary care, including those related to access, resources, and skill mix, while delivering whole-person care.

Study the implementation of the TECC-DM model alongside its effectiveness. Engaging a partner advisory group, knowledge users, and clinicians reflects the shared values of our team and ensures that this research leverages a wealth of expertise and real-world insights to inform future applications.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults ≥18 years old
• Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D)
• Experiencing mental health challenges, defined as:
• Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) score ≥8 on either subscale OR
• Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS) score ≥2
• Community-living
• Able to communicate verbally in English
• Residing in Ontario during study participation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of severe mental illness (e.g., schizophrenia, psychotic disorder)