The GNL Podcast

Episode 30 — Educating on the Algorithms Behind Diabetes Technology

Dr Inge Van Boxelaer on why diabetes technology fails without education — and how independent, structured learning is becoming the missing link in AID, CGM, and future care.

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Episode 30 cover image — educating on diabetes technology algorithms with Dr Inge Van Boxelaer

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Also available on Buzzsprout and YouTube. Guest: Dr Inge Van Boxelaer (Founder, Diabetotech). Host: John Pemberton.

In this episode

Advanced diabetes technologies like CGM and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems are transforming outcomes — but only when people understand how to use them properly. In this episode, John speaks with endocrinologist Dr Inge Van Boxelaer about the real barrier holding progress back: education. They explore why access is not enough, how poor training limits adoption, and what high-quality, independent education should actually look like.

Core themes

Education as the bottleneck: Technology is advancing faster than clinical education can keep up.
Consistency beats marketing: Clinicians and users need unbiased, structured learning — not scattered manufacturer videos.
Flipped learning works: Short, modular, on-demand education tends to improve understanding and save clinical time.

What Diabetotech offers

Diabetotech brings diabetes technology education into one trusted place. Instead of scattered manufacturer materials, it provides structured learning that helps users understand how systems work, what settings mean, and how to use them safely.

Free general modules covering core concepts
Device-specific courses for CGM, pumps, and AID systems
Up-to-date comparisons as new technologies are released
Affordable subscription for full access and CPD credits

Key themes

1. Technology does not fail — education does

AID systems, CGMs, and algorithms work well when people understand their purpose, limits, and setup. The biggest barrier to adoption tends not to be cost or access — it tends to be confidence and competence.

Lack of structured education can prevent clinicians from recommending systems confidently
Users struggle when assumptions are made about baseline knowledge

2. Independent education matters

Manufacturer education is useful — but inherently biased. Independent platforms allow fair comparison, clear expectations, and clinically relevant guidance without sales pressure.

One trusted platform reduces confusion and cognitive overload
Standardised structure helps clinicians learn faster and retain more

Steps to building technology confidence

Step 1: Identify one diabetes technology you currently avoid discussing due to uncertainty.

Step 2: Learn the basics — what it does, who it is for, and its limitations.

Step 3: Create a short, repeatable explanation you can use confidently with patients or colleagues.

This content is for educational exploration only. It describes average responses and general principles. It is not medical advice and cannot replace individual clinical guidance from your diabetes care team.

About the guest

Dr Inge Van Boxelaer is an endocrinologist based in Belgium and the founder of Diabetotech. With over a decade of clinical experience, she specialises in diabetes technology education, focusing on CGM, insulin pumps, AID systems, and emerging innovations. Her work bridges clinical practice, independent education, and future-focused learning.