“Cutting Complications and Costs in Diabetes Care” : Exploring the possibilities of technology in diabetes care practice in Finland

Abstract

Diabetes is a worldwide problem, affecting approximately 425 million adults around the world and causing health expenditure for USD 727 billion dollars in 2017. In Finland, approximately 6 % of the population is suffering from diabetes and the number is rising. It is estimated that the number of cases might double within the following 10-15 years. The care is currently expensive and ineffective, as even as much as 70 % of the costs are caused by complications that could be avoided when people at risk are identified early enough and treated sufficiently.

The aim of this study is to explore how the current diabetes care practice in Finland could be improved by using technology in a way that decreases both the amount of complications and the healthcare expenditure. More specific, the study is concerned with which investments should be made in order to minimize the amount of complications. Furthermore, it strives to provide a deeper insight into how technology could be used for preventive care, both improving care results and saving costs.

The qualitative study was carried out conducting theme interviews with leading specialists in the area of diabetes treatment, health technology (with focus on diabetes care), public health and diabetes work in Finland.

Research results show that a patient-centred focus striving for as stable blood glucose control and good quality of life as possible were found to be essential in order to reach better care results, i.e. less complications. Managing, teaching and supporting patients would be the area where technology could prove to be most useful, as it could help making everyday decisions, serve as a reminder system and a channel for mental support and engagement. Enhanced visibility and knowledge of information for both patient and healthcare providers were also considered key factors. As healthcare professionals gain better overview of patients’ care, resources can be allocated in better ways. Further development and use of technology as well as focus on engaging, individualized diabetes care could lead to a shift towards a more preventive care model, reducing the number of complications, saving healthcare expenditure as well as improving the life of people with diabetes.