A Solution Focused Approach of Delivering Virtual Paediatric Diabetes Consultations During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The onset of the COVID-19 global pandemic rapidly accelerated the use of virtual consultations into everyday practice. A solution focused approach (SFA) has been established in paediatric diabetes care, resulting in positive clinical outcomes and communication. The aim of this study was to assess feedback from paediatric diabetes patients and their parents or carers regarding virtual consultations, using a solution focused approach, in a hospital setting. An electronic survey was sent to patients following their virtual consultation. Of those surveyed, 86% recommended video consultations to be part of their diabetes care. Qualitative data showed reduced travel time, comfort, reduced need for parking and convenience as the highest areas improved through video consultations. Clinical care was shown to be positive and addressed patients concerns, the majority of respondents (84%) reported that the appointment was about what they wanted it to be about. Using the solution focused model helped overcome the challenges faced with virtual consultations particularly with concerns surrounding safeguarding issues, confidentiality, audio/video difficulties and also helped to support the patient journey.

Presentation of newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes in children and young people during COVID-19: a national UK survey

In the UK, there have been reports of significant reductions in paediatric emergency attendances and visits to the general practitioners due to COVID-19. A national survey undertaken by the UK Association of Children's Diabetes Clinicians found that the proportion of new-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D) presenting with diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) during this COVID-19 pandemic was higher than previously reported, and there has been an increase in presentation of severe DKA at diagnosis in children and young people under the age of 18 years. Delayed presentations of T1D have been documented in up 20% of units with reasons for delayed presentation ranging from fear of contracting COVID-19 to an inability to contact or access a medical provider for timely evaluation. Public health awareness and diabetes education should be disseminated to healthcare providers on the timeliness of referrals of children with T1D.