A pilot study evaluating two continuous glucose monitoring education strategies for adults with type 2 diabetes in primary care

Plain English summary of protocol

Background and study aims
Type 2 diabetes is a common long-term condition that can increase the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, sight loss and other health complications if blood glucose levels are not well controlled. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) uses a small sensor worn on the skin to provide information about glucose levels throughout the day and night. CGM may help people better understand how food, physical activity and lifestyle choices affect their glucose levels.
Although CGM is increasingly used in diabetes care, there is limited evidence on the best way to introduce and support its use for people with Type 2 diabetes who are not using insulin in primary care. This pilot study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of two different CGM education strategies delivered in a GP practice. The findings will help inform the design of a future larger study.

Who can participate?
Adults aged 35–70 years who have had Type 2 diabetes for more than one year, have an HbA1c between 59 and 86 mmol/mol, are not using insulin, can understand spoken and written English, and are willing to wear a CGM sensor and attend study visits.

What does the study involve?
Thirty participants will be recruited and randomly allocated to one of two groups.
Participants in Group A will wear a FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus sensor for approximately 15 days and will be able to view their glucose information in real time. They will receive standard education and attend a follow-up review appointment.
Participants in Group B will wear a CGM sensor for approximately 15 days but will be asked not to view their glucose data during this period. At a follow-up appointment, a clinician will review the data and discuss key findings with the participant. A second sensor will then be applied for a further 15 days, during which participants will be able to view their glucose information and apply the advice received.
Participants will complete questionnaires about their experiences. Some participants may also be invited to take part in an optional interview. Participants will take part for approximately 4–5 weeks (Group A) or 8–10 weeks (Group B). With consent, the research team will review routine HbA1c results recorded in GP records approximately 12 months after enrolment. No additional visits or blood tests will be required for this follow-up.

What are the possible benefits and risks of participating?
Participants may gain a better understanding of how their daily activities, food choices and lifestyle affect their glucose levels. This may help support diabetes self-management.
The study is considered low risk. Possible risks include mild discomfort or skin irritation from wearing the sensor. Participants may also find that seeing glucose information causes temporary concern or anxiety, although support will be available from the study team.

Where is the study run from?
Country Park Practice (UK)

When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for?
June 2026 to November 2026

Who is funding the study?
The study is sponsored by Country Park Practice. No external commercial funding is being provided for the study. Continuous glucose monitoring sensors will be obtained through the manufacturer's publicly available free sample programme or existing educational sample stock.

Who is the main contact?
Nkiruka Ofokansi, nikki.ofokansi@nhs.net

Contact information

Study information

Eligibility

Locations

Countries of recruitment

• United Kingdom
• England

Study participating centre

Results and Publications

Study outputs

Additional files

49755_Protocol_v2.1_30tJan2026.pdf

Protocol file

Editorial Notes

22/06/2026: Study's existence confirmed by the HRA.