Closing Diabetes Disparities—Is Technology Access Enough?
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By
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Rocio I. Pereira
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July 1, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Addressing Diabetes Inequities—Is Access to Technology Sufficient?
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Diabetes Disparities |
| Key Mechanisms | Social determinants of health affecting glycemic control |
| Target Population | Adults and children using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) |
| Care Setting | Public health and diabetes management |
Key Highlights
- Public health insurance linked to worse glycemic metrics across all age groups
- Black race and disadvantaged neighborhoods associated with poorer glycemic control in children
- Access to diabetes technology alone insufficient to close disparities
- Individualized support may enable more equitable outcomes
- Persistent disparities in glycemic control despite technology use
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess social determinants of health in diabetes management
Management
- Pair diabetes technology access with education and individualized support
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Utilize continuous glucose monitoring data to guide patient behavior
Risks
- Social barriers may sustain diabetes disparities despite technology access
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals with diabetes, particularly from racial and ethnic minority groups
Education and support are critical for effective use of diabetes technology
Clinical Best Practices
- Integrate social determinants of health into diabetes care plans
- Ensure ongoing access to clinicians for technology users
- Provide tailored education for effective use of CGM and insulin pumps
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