Web-based care for adults with type 2 diabetes.

Telediabetes is a form of telemedicine used to provide education and clinical care to persons living with diabetes. Web-based delivery modes using cellular telephones and/or computers are of particular interest as they are becoming increasingly available. A review of current research on the practice of web-based telediabetes to adults with type 2 diabetes was conducted to determine the potential impact of this delivery mode on professional dietetics practice. Nine articles meeting the inclusion criteria were identified, critiqued, and summarized. Studies varied greatly in breadth and scope; consequently, few general conclusions could be drawn about telediabetes programs. Telediabetes programs were discussed in the context of soundness, effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and practical characteristics. Trends indicated a promising future for telediabetes. Dietitians should view telemedicine as a viable tool for service delivery and increase their knowledge, competency, advocacy, and research efforts in this area.