How to leverage mobile technology in an innovative way to support people with type 1 diabetes.

1. Cool Mobile Apps
Kevin L McMahon
type 1 technology ventures, llc
diabetes technology consulting

2. The Problem
● Lots of numbers in diabetes
● Lots of actions to do
● 'Highs' and 'Lows' are somehow your fault
● I just want to be 'NORMAL'
● One missed meal bolus per week = + 0.5 A1c
● “If you would just log your data into your phone...”

3. Myths
● Teens want to use mobile apps
● Logging your data improves blood sugar control
● Monthly review of BG patterns improves control
● Device alarms & reminders are proven effective

4. The Solution
● Focus on your actions
● Actions are under your control; Blood sugar #s are not
● Need a little help remembering those important to do's?
– You
– Your child
– Your child's school caregiver
– Your child's friend with T1D

5. Texting!

6. Avoid the Obvious
● Mobile apps are rarely used for long
● Basic text messaging is THE KING of mobile apps
● Never state the obvious!!!

7. Leverage Curiosity
● Calendar event reminders: Gmail (free), limitations
● Easy to use text messaging platforms (penny/text)
● One example:

8. Leverage Curiosity

9. GlucoPALS
●
Designed with a 16yr old boy w T1D
about 10 years ago
●
Scenario: Friends from diabetes camp
●
More interested in his friend's health
than his own (human nature)
●
Andrew & Ethan agree to be
GlucoPALS
●
Text messaging system instigates
conversational support messages
●
Andrew receives noon message -
“Ethan wants your #”
Andrew
Ethan

10. Basics Design Tips
● The tool that gets used is the best tool
● Texting is #1 for most people (intimate communication)
● Never state the obvious!!!
● Make them curious enough to open the message
● Never be predictable – every message 'Could' be unique
● Mix in a smart diabetes tip every once in a while
● Respect the Give vs. Get ratio
● Push a button; Get a banana
● Text reply trumps 'Send me a message'
● Make it fun
● Reward curiosity – random prizes
● Don't nag!!!

11. Conclusion
General Purpose Technology
is No Substitute for
!!! Frequent !!!
Person-to-Person
Communication & Review

12. Thank U!
Kevin L McMahon
diabetes technology inventor
research investigator / industry consultant
type 1 technology ventures, llc
kevin@type1techventures.com
http://type1techventures.com