531-P: “I Feel Human, I Feel Normal”: A Qualitative Study of Experiences with Control-IQ Technology in Early Adopters

The Tandem Diabetes Care® t:slim X2TM insulin pump with Control-IQTM technology is an advanced hybrid closed-loop system, cleared by the FDA in December 2019. To date various studies have demonstrated glycemic and patient-reported improvements using this system. However, there are no published qualitative studies evaluating real-world experiences of using Control-IQ technology. As part of a larger, real-world study involving people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) using Control-IQ technology, we randomly selected and invited participants (Ps) to phone interviews to discuss their experiences using this system. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted in May-June 2020. They were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Interviews were conducted by two experienced health professionals and lasted an average of 23 minutes (range 9-50 minutes). Interview transcripts were imported into NVivo V.12 for data coding and analysis. Interviews were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. In all, 27 T1D adults (14 women, 13 men) were interviewed. Four major themes (T) emerged: the initiation phase (T1), successes (T2), and challenges (T3) with Control-IQ technology, and its impact on quality of life (QoL) (T4). Ps reported taking some time to trust the new automated system and “feeling comfortable in letting it do its thing” (T1). Improved sleep quality, glycemic control (HbA1c), and sensor time in range were commonly reported by Ps (T2) along with reduced burden of diabetes management (T2). A few Ps discussed their need for the system to be more aggressive while managing hyperglycemia (T3). Overall, Ps described valuable improvements in their QoL, including reduced stress and decision-making around diabetes management, and increased freedom and spontaneity in daily life (T4). These qualitative findings highlight the significant impact of Control-IQ technology on Ps glycemic control, psychological health, and their ability to engage in daily life activities. Disclosure H. Singh: Employee; Self; Tandem Diabetes Care. M. Mcelwee-malloy: Employee; Self; Tandem Diabetes Care. H. Sanchez: Employee; Self; Tandem Diabetes Care. S. Habif: Employee; Self; Tandem Diabetes Care.