Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026

The Dyspepsia Educational Tool As a Novel Aid in Dyspepsia Management
Published on: June 29, 2019
Smart Pens: Expectations Regarding Use and Functionality From Health Care Providers
Julia K Mader1, Lutz Heinemann2, Derek Brandt3,4
1Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
Objective:
As part of the 2025 diabetes and technology (dt)-report, this study explored indications for use, barriers to adoption, and perceived functionality of smart pens.
Methods:
An online survey conducted between November and December 2024 gathered responses from diabetes specialists and diabetes educators (health care professionals [HCPs]) in Germany (DE), Austria (AT), Switzerland (CH), and Spain (ES). Participants estimated the proportion of individuals with diabetes who would benefit from smart pens, rated the significance of specific functions, and evaluated barriers on 5-point scales.
Results:
The survey included 1294 HCPs (69.2% DE, 9.7% AT, 7.0% CH; 14.1% ES). Current usage of smart pens is estimated at 4% to 15% for people with type 1 diabetes and 3% to 6% for those with type 2 diabetes. However, the indication rate is markedly higher, ranging from 51% to 73% for people with type 1 and up to 69% for those with type 2 with intensive insulin therapy. Most valued features included reminders for missed insulin doses (4.4 ± 0.7), bolus dose suggestions (4.1 ± 0.8), integration with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) apps (4.1 ± 0.8), and temperature alerts (3.7 ± 1.0). Basal insulin suggestions were considered less important (3.3 ± 1.1). No significant differences were found between physicians and diabetes educators. Major barriers included preference for disposable pens (57%), limited device options (54%), and high cost (53%). Among DE respondents, concerns over cost reimbursement rose compared to the 2024 dt-report.
Conclusion:
Smart pens are underutilized compared to expectations. Cost and reimbursement remain the predominant barriers, while reminder functionality stands out as the most valued feature.
Related Concept Videos
Guidelines for Writing Outcome
Patient outcomes reflect the patient's response to the goal rather than what the nurse aims to achieve. Terminology should be observable and measurable to avoid the reader's interpretation. The desired outcome should be realistic and achievable in the designated care timeframe. Expected outcomes should align with adjunctive therapies. The outcome should enhance care evaluation by...
Methods of Documentation III: PIE
Guidelines and Strategies for Safe Computer Charting
Maintain Confidentiality and Security:
Patient-centered Care
Guidelines for Nursing Documentation I
Factual:
The following points emphasize the significance of upholding accurate and unbiased documentation in healthcare.
Methods of Documentation VII: EMR
