As technology evolves, the way we care for our children changes too. Just a few years ago, children with Type 1 diabetes had to check their blood sugar levels multiple times a day at school by visiting the nurse for a finger prick. But with the advent of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), that routine has shifted dramatically. These tiny devices, often attached to the arm, have revolutionized diabetes management by sending real-time readings directly to an app on a phone or wireless device, eliminating the need for frequent interruptions during the school day.
Blood sugar levels that are too high or too low can have serious consequences for children with diabetes. High blood sugar may require a dose of insulin to prevent severe complications like loss of consciousness, while low blood sugar can lead to dizziness or seizures, necessitating a quick sugar boost. The CGM app provides a visual snapshot of these levels and sounds an alarm when they veer out of the normal range, alerting students and teachers to take action promptly.
Many parents have expressed concerns about the reliance on teachers to hear these alarms in a bustling classroom setting. They worry that a teacher may not always be nearby to respond, underscoring the need for more robust support systems in schools. Parents advocate for remote monitoring of CGM apps by school nurses or administrative staff to ensure a constant watchful eye, especially during times when students are outside the classroom, like during recess or on field trips.
However, despite the clear benefits of this technology, schools have been hesitant to adopt these measures due to concerns about staffing shortages and technical issues. A recent survey by the National Association of School Nurses revealed that about one-third of schools lack a full-time nurse, leaving them ill-equipped to handle the demands of remote monitoring.
Julie Calidonio, a parent from Lutz, Florida, shared her frustrations with the lack of support her son Luke, who has diabetes, has received from his school. She emphasized the urgency of the situation, questioning why schools are not leveraging technology meant to prevent harm effectively. Calidonio’s concerns echo those of parents nationwide who are fighting for their children’s right to a safe and supportive school environment.
The issue of remote monitoring is not isolated to Florida but resonates across the country. Parents in 40 states have reported difficulties in getting their children’s CGMs monitored at school, prompting legal action in some cases. The Americans with Disabilities Act mandates that schools provide reasonable accommodations for students with diabetes, underscoring the urgency for schools to step up and meet these obligations.
As pediatric endocrinologist Henry Rodriguez points out, schools face real challenges in implementing remote monitoring due to workforce limitations. However, the American Diabetes Association advocates for removing barriers to remote monitoring, emphasizing the importance of meeting each child’s unique medical needs in a school setting.
In the case of Taylor Inman from San Diego, her daughter Ruby’s struggles with diabetes management at school led the family to explore alternative solutions. They invested in a diabetes support dog, who has proven invaluable in detecting Ruby’s blood sugar fluctuations. The Inmans eventually transferred Ruby to a private school that embraces remote monitoring, providing her with a supportive environment where she can thrive.
The journey to secure remote monitoring in schools can be arduous, as demonstrated by parents like Lauren Valentine in Virginia. After lobbying Loudoun County Public Schools for over a year, Valentine and other parents successfully persuaded the district to adopt remote monitoring for students with diabetes. This change has brought peace of mind to parents like Valentine, who now know that school nurses are equipped to respond promptly to their children’s needs.
The evolution of diabetes care in schools reflects a broader shift in how technology is revolutionizing healthcare. As we navigate these changes, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being of our children and ensure that schools provide the necessary support for students with diabetes. By embracing innovation and adapting to new challenges, we can create a safer and more inclusive educational environment for all.
