Evaluating the feasibility of a co-designed technology-enabled, collaborative care program for young adults with type 1 diabetes and diabetes distress: A protocol

Aim: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a complex, chronic condition that requires active and intensive daily self-management, often necessitating specialized and integrated care. Individuals with T1D are at a heightened risk of experiencing diabetes distress (DD) and other mental health challenges, which, when unaddressed, can impair diabetes self-management and diminish quality of life. These challenges are particularly pronounced for young adults with T1D, who must navigate the typical developmental transitions of early adulthood while managing changes in their diabetes care, self-management, and support systems. However, physical and mental healthcare remain fragmented. While previous studies have explored interventions to address DD, many have faced limitations in scalability. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the co-designed technology-enabled collaborative care model (TECC-T1D3) tailored to young adults with T1D and DD. Methods: A randomized controlled trial in young adults aged 18-29 years living with T1D in Ontario, Canada (n = 60), to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the co-designed TECC-T1D3 intervention. Secondary objectives include evaluating the preliminary effectiveness of the program in reducing DD, enhancing self-efficacy, improving quality of life, and exploring the impact of the intervention on connectedness to care and community. Results: This paper presents the trial protocol of the TECC-T1D3 study. Recruitment began in December 2024, and the trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06804694). Conclusion: The TECC-T1D3 study will determine whether a TECC model is feasible and acceptable for young adults with T1D and DD.