Usability Evaluation of a Blood Glucose Monitoring System With a Spill-Resistant Vial, Easier Strip Handling, and Connectivity to a Mobile App: Improvement of Patient Convenience and Satisfaction. (September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harvey, Craig; Koubek, Richard; Bégat, Vanessa; Jacob, Stephan
• Is Part Of: Journal of diabetes science and technology. Volume 10:Number 5(2016:Sep.)
• Page Start: 1136
• Page End: 1141
• Publication Date: 2016-09
• Subjects: diabetes -- usability -- blood glucose monitoring system -- mobile app -- human factors -- SMBG; Diabetes -- Periodicals; Medical technology -- Periodicals; Diabetes Mellitus -- Periodicals; 616.462005
• DOI: 10.1177/1932296816658058
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1932-2968

Abstract

Background: Proper management of diabetes mellitus requires regular self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). This research evaluated the usability of the Accu-Chek® Guide Meter that includes a spill-resistant vial, easier strip handling, and wireless connectivity to a mobile app. Methods: A total of 197 participants were allowed to experience typical blood glucose testing tasks on the Accu-Chek Guide Meter, review data such as last result, patterns, and target percentage on the meter and on the mobile app, and then evaluate their experience through a human factors usability survey. Participants used a 6-point agree/disagree scale to rate 34 market statement questions. Results: The results of a Pearson chi-square proportions test for each of the 34 market statement questions showed a significant difference ( P < .0001) between the disagree responses (1-3) and agree responses (4-6). An overwhelming majority of participants found all aspects of the system, including the test strips, strip vial, and data analysis on the meter and the mobile app, to be a good fit for their lifestyle and to provide a better testing experience. Conclusions: This study found superior usability of the new meter system over the participants' current meters in both the United States and France.