461-P: A Day in the Life of a Person with Diabetes Mellitus: An Experiential Learning Initiative

Background: Despite the increased use of diabetes related technology, patient outcomes remain suboptimal and there remains a gap in the understanding of these devices among medical trainees as well as a gap in relating to patients’ experiences. We aimed to improve understanding of diabetes technology as well as increase empathy for patients among trainees. In this pilot study, we proposed a novel model of diabetes teaching through experiential learning to address these deficits.

Methods: Participants (medical trainees) followed simulated type 1 diabetes (T1D) clinical management scenarios for 2 days designed to replicate the typical daily life of individuals with T1D. They wore and used insulin pumps (using saline) and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). We evaluated their understanding of diabetes technologies and empathy for patients via mixed-method surveys (on a Likert scale) administered before and after following these scenarios.

Results: Pediatric endocrine fellows (n=7), pediatric residents (n=2), and 1 medical student participated. Trainees’ confidence in diabetes management and self-perceived capability of answering questions pertaining to insulin pumps were enhanced following participation [(3.10±0.99 vs. 3.90±0.57) and (2.80±0.92 vs. 3.80±0.92), respectively]. Trainees’ knowledge of diabetes management and self-perceived capability of answering CGM questions increased marginally [(3.30±0.82 vs. 3.80±0.42) and (3.14±1.07 vs. 3.57±0.98), respectively]. Participation positively changed their understanding, empathy, and overall perspective of patients’ daily challenges in 90% of participants.

Conclusions: Our experiential learning model provides an effective template and basis to address deficits in understanding of diabetes care and enhance empathy for those living with T1D. Future research could integrate this learning model into medical training programs across multiple centers in order to further assess its feasibility among a larger cohort.