This cross-sectional national U.S. survey (March 2020, n=121 adults with diabetes) examined patterns of digital health tool use, online health communication, and willingness to share health data, with subgroup analyses by age, education, employment, and insurance type.
Nearly all participants (99%) had daily internet access, but fewer than two-thirds (60%) used it for health purposes and only 56% had health-specific apps. Just 40% shared health data with providers and 36% with family/friends. Engagement was lowest among adults ≥65 years (37% health app use vs. 72% in 18–34 group) and those on public insurance (Medicaid: 38% app use vs. 77% commercial). No disparities were found by race or geographic region.
- Small diabetes subsample (n=121) limits statistical power, especially for subgroup analyses. - Survey did not capture use of diabetes-specific tools (CGM, insulin pumps, disease-specific apps), so findings reflect general digital health engagement only. - Data collected March 2020 (pre-pandemic baseline); current engagement levels likely higher after COVID-19-driven telehealth expansion.
Many patients most reliant on primary care—older adults, retirees, and those on Medicare/Medicaid—are least likely to use digital health tools or share data with providers. Clinicians should proactively identify under-engaged patients and offer targeted support to bridge this gap rather than assuming digital access equals digital engagement.
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