What factors influence people living with diabetes to use digital health technologies?

If digital health technologies can positively affect health outcomes, what are the factors that drive people living with diabetes to use them?

In their study on wearable devices used to treat diabetes, Lee and Lee discovered that there are several key factors which lead to ‘actual use behaviours’. According to this study, 'Actual use behaviours', have a positive relationship with ‘health improvement expectancy’ and ‘continuous use intention’.

In other words, when people used the technology, in this case a wearable device, they expected their health to improve which then encouraged them to continue using it. Taking a step back, let's evaluate the factors that encourage use-behaviour in the first place.

Out of the internal and external factors listed in the above diagram, all had a positive relationship with ‘actual use behaviours’. This highlights the importance of a holistic approach to treatment which takes both internal and external factors into account.

In practical terms, this might mean ensuring you are well educated when it comes to digital health technology, have good mental health and a positive outlook and are using a digital health solution which is safe, provides a high quality user experience and has strong social support.