Comparison of alternating home telemedicine consultations with regular face to face consultations in type 1 diabetes

Methods A 12 month non randomized controlled trial was performed in 2013 comprising a cohort of children, adolescents and young adults with T1DM from the immediate local region compared with a similar cohort from a region greater than 70 Km away. The local cohort continued with 3 monthly appointments and extra visits as required between appointments. The distant cohort had 6 monthly face to face consultations, alternating with 6 monthly formal videoconference consultations to their homes. Extra visits were also managed via videoconference. Outcome was measured by comparison of HbA1c between the two groups before during and after the intervention. Missed or rescheduled visits were compared. A patient satisfaction survey was performed and logistic issues were described from both the patient and medical team perspective.