Assessment and Intervention for Diabetes Distress in Primary Care Using Clinical and Technological Interventions: Protocol for a Single-Arm Pilot Trial.

backgroundDiabetes distress (DD) is a common emotional response to living with diabetes. If not addressed, DD can have negative impacts on diabetes management, including the progression to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Routine screening and treatment for DD is recommended, with primary care being an ideal setting given that the majority of people with diabetes receive their diabetes care from primary care providers. However, consistent screening of DD does not routinely occur in primary care settings. Research is needed to understand how to effectively and feasibly integrate DD screening and treatment into routine diabetes care.

objectiveThis study aims to (1) design and implement individualized technology-supported DD workflows, (2) evaluate the primary outcome of determining the acceptability and feasibility of integrating technology-based workflows to provide treatment for DD, and (3) evaluate the secondary outcomes of changes in DD, depression, and anxiety (baseline, 3 months, and 6 months) in patients receiving screening and personalized treatment.

methodsIn total, 30 English and Spanish-speaking primary care patients with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes will receive screening for DD during clinical visits and subsequent support from an artificial intelligence (AI)-based health care chatbot with interactive tailored messaging. In addition, the use of electronic consultation with a specialist or referral to a behavioral health provider could occur depending on the severity and source of DD. The use of electronic consultations allows providers convenient and timely asynchronous access to a range of specialty care providers. Health outcomes will be measured through changes in validated screening measures for DD, depression, and anxiety. Digital outcomes will be measured through surveys assessing user experience with technology and system usability, and by system performance data. Qualitative data on acceptability and satisfaction with the clinical workflows and technological interventions will be collected through interviews with patients and clinical providers. Descriptive statistics will summarize quantitative outcome measures and responses to closed-ended survey items, and rapid thematic and content analysis will be conducted on open-ended survey and interview data.

resultsWorkflows for screening and treating DD have been approved and clinical staff have received training on the process. Electronic surveys for screening measure collection have been created. Data from visit screeners will be entered into the electronic medical record during the medical appointment. Recruitment will begin late June-July 2024.

conclusionsThis study is expected to demonstrate the feasibility and acceptability of integrating individualized workflows for DD into primary care. Improving clinical and digital interventions for addressing DD in primary care can provide alternative care options for busy clinical providers. This study is intended to deliver whole-person diabetes care to people with diabetes within a primary care setting. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/62916.