Diabetes and technology – an update for the general physician

Diabetes is a growing public health concern. Approximately 20% of acute NHS hospital beds are occupied by individuals with diabetes. Following the recent NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) updates, diabetes technologies are increasingly available in the NHS. Despite the benefits, they present challenges, eg unfamiliarity, insufficient education, and lack of confidence of general physicians who are increasingly likely to encounter people using these technologies, presenting with acute illnesses. This review aims to update the general physicians with diabetes technologies such as continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps, hybrid closed loop systems and how to troubleshoot in acute illnesses, diabetes emergencies, perioperative management and radiological investigations. While it is important to develop consistent inpatient care pathways and out-of-hours support from diabetes teams, it is vital to enhance the knowledge and confidence of non-diabetes physicians. Further research is warranted to support the use of technology in inpatient settings and diabetes emergencies.