EVOLVING HEALTH, EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL NEEDS OF CHILDREN WITH TYPE 1 DIABETES IN GEORGIA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY 2023–2025

Abstract

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in children poses complicated medical, psychological, and educational challenges, especially in countries where development is limited. In Georgia, data do not cover the evolving needs of children with diabetes and their families. This research compares 2023 and 2025 data in identifying successes and challenges in diabetes care in children.  A quantitative cross-sectional survey was performed with 177 parents and caregivers of children with T1D using a structured online and telephone interview questionnaire. The new survey was a modified version of the 2023 survey with additional questions about access to diabetes technology, education, and psychosocial support. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed using SPSS version 29.0 and results were interpreted on the population basis.  Access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) increased from 38% to 61%, and parental participation in diabetes education programs increased from 42% to 68% between 2023 and 2025. Awareness of psychosocial support services increased by 29%, and reported barriers to insulin affordability decreased by 18%. Although this trend changed dramatically, 32% of families - especially in rural areas - still had trouble accessing consistent endocrinology care, and 40% did not have appropriate school-based diabetes management support.  The present study addresses a lack of understanding on the challenge in diabetes care post transition in Eastern European health systems with the continued technological development and its correlation with socioeconomic and regional differences. It offers quantitative information of improved access, awareness and highlights systemic gaps of educational and psychosocial care.  These results underscore the requirement for integrated, multidisciplinary diabetes care models that integrate medical, family, and school support. Such findings may inform ongoing policy and healthcare efforts to shape equitable treatment to better pediatric diabetes in Georgia and comparable developing countries.