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Are Schools Keeping Up with Diabetes Tech?
In the age of health technology, the integration of diabetes management devices into school systems remains a hot-button issue. The continuous glucose monitor (CGM) has revolutionized how children with Type 1 diabetes manage their condition. Unlike the traditional finger-prick tests that required multiple daily checks, CGMs allow for continuous monitoring through a small device attached to the skin. This technology sends real-time data to a phone app, alerting users to dangerous blood sugar fluctuations. However, parents express frustration over schools’ insufficient responsiveness to this life-saving technology.
The Parents’ Dilemma
Many parents argue that schools are not adequately trained or prepared to support students using CGMs. While teachers are asked to listen for alarms, the chaotic environment of a busy classroom can often drown out these alerts. Parents like Julie Calidonio have found it distressing when their child's health depends on the school's awareness. The demand isn’t for constant monitoring, but rather prompt intervention when alerts sound—a simple acknowledgment that can mean the difference between safety and a health crisis.
Challenges Schools Face
From staffing shortages to concerns about internet reliability, schools cite several reasons for their hesitance to fully implement CGM monitoring. About one-third of schools lack full-time nurses, which hampers consistent oversight of students’ health metrics. Despite these challenges, many argue that training existing staff to familiarize themselves with CGM alerts could serve as a feasible solution. Addressing both the technical and human elements of these devices is paramount to ensuring that children receive appropriate medical support during school hours.
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