Innovative mobile technology alcohol education for young people with type 1 diabetes.

Abstract

Views of young people with type 1 diabetes are vital in developing quality services and improving health-related quality of life (HRQoL), yet research on their lifestyle and use of web and mobile technology to support their condition and in non-health related areas is sparse. The aim of this research was to develop an insight into young people’s current use of web and mobile technology and its potential impact on HRQoL by constructing an in-depth picture of their day-to-day experiences, exploring how they made use of technology in their lives and in relation to their condition and treatment – then, building something to help them. Data were collected by semi-structured, in-depth qualitative interviews (n=9) of young people with type 1 diabetes and aged 18–21 years. Interviews were transcribed and loaded onto NVivo for theme identification. Data analysis was also undertaken during initial interviews (n=4) to locate potential ideas for technical development. Latter interviews (n=5) assisted in the iterative sociotechnical design process. Three suggestions for improvement were taken forward for prototyping with one – an alcohol education guide – being developed into a clinically approved app. This article documents the procedures and sociotechnical design principles involved in the creation of a patient-centric app. It provides an innovative example of how education with the aim of improving HRQoL can be designed in a way which meets the needs of a particular group and values and encourages their input to assist in the creative process, while at the same time conforming to clinical guidelines.