Authors' objectives: The number of people living with diabetes mellitus (PwD) is continuously rising in Europe, with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounting for about 90% of cases. Regular medical visits, balanced diet management, regular exercise, and weight management are fundamental components of successful T2DM management. Telehealth interventions are gaining importance both for self-management and in the treatment of PwD. The aim of this study is to identify available or piloted digital health technologies in European countries and summarise their organisational aspects.

Authors' results and conclusions: A total of 24 digital health technologies (DHTs) were identified and categorised into three areas based on their objectives: treatment support, behavioural change, and supportive care. The DHTs include systems for data exchange between PwD and healthcare professionals (HCPs), as well as innovative approaches such as app-based nutritional counselling. Depending on the objectives of the DHTs, different healthcare professionals were involved, highlighting the shift towards a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. Five of the 24 DHTs are reimbursed in Europe. Therapy adherence varied significantly, mainly due to loss of interest and technical issues. The analysis of organisational impacts showed reduced hospital stays and lower healthcare costs for patients, but an increased workload for doctors due to additional telemonitoring tasks. Several studies suggest positive acceptance of DHTs by patients and healthcare providers.

Authors' recommendations: The implementation of telehealth solutions for diabetes requires consideration of various aspects. The choice of reimbursement model can influence acceptance and utilisation, which is why integration into existing care programmes might be preferable to separate reimbursement. Given the variable therapy adherence and identified barriers, continuous monitoring of adherence, patient experiences, and technical functionality of digital technologies is necessary.

Authors' methods: This study employed two complementary approaches: an online survey through the International Diabetes Federation Europe (IDFE), and a scoping review updating a previous AIHTA report. The systematic literature search was conducted in five databases: Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, PsycInfo and HTA-INAHTA.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: https://aihta.at/page/assess-dht-entwicklung-und-harmonisierung-von-methoden-zur-bewertung-von-digitalen-gesundheitstechnologien-in-europa-2024-2026/en

Year Published: 2024

URL for published report: https://eprints.aihta.at/1555/1/HTA-Projektbericht_Nr.161.pdf

URL for additional information: https://eprints.aihta.at/1555/

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Full HTA

Country: Austria

Organisation Name: Austrian Institute for Health Technology Assessment

Contact Address: Josefstaedter Strasse 39, A-1080 Vienna, Austria

Contact Name: office@aihta.at

Contact Email: office@aihta.at