[Position paper: Open-source technology in the treatment of people living with diabetes mellitus-an Austrian perspective : Technology Committee of the Austrian Diabetes Association].

Abstract

People living with diabetes mellitus can be supported in the daily management by diabetes technology with automated insulin delivery (AID) systems to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and improve glycemic control as well as the quality of life. Due to barriers in the availability of AID-systems, the use and development of open-source AID-systems have internationally increased. This technology provides a necessary alternative to commercially available products, especially when approved systems are inaccessible or insufficiently adapted to the specific needs of the users. Open-source technology is characterized by worldwide free availability of codes on the internet, is not officially approved and therefore the use is on the individual's own responsibility. In the clinical practice a lack of expertise with open-source AID technology and concerns about legal consequences, lead to conflict situations for health-care professionals (HCP), sometimes resulting in the refusal of care of people living with diabetes mellitus. This position paper provides an overview of the available evidence and practical guidance for HCP to minimize uncertainties and barriers. People living with diabetes mellitus must continue to be supported in education and diabetes management, independent of the chosen diabetes technology including open-source technology. Check-ups of the metabolic control, acute and chronic complications and screening for diabetes-related diseases are necessary and should be regularly carried out, regardless of the chosen AID-system and by a multidisciplinary team with appropriate expertise.