Perception and readiness of Mexican healthcare professionals at different career stages to adopt wearable devices in type 2 diabetes management

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) remains one of the most urgent health concerns in Mexico, with steadily rising prevalence, substantial treatment costs, and increasing pressure on healthcare services. As the burden of this condition grows, there is a pressing need for innovative strategies to improve patient monitoring, engagement, and outcomes. Wearable health devices, capable of providing continuous, real-time data, are among the most promising technological tools for achieving these goals. However, successful adoption depends not only on the technology itself but also on healthcare professionals’ perceptions, willingness, and capacity to integrate such tools into their practice. This study examined the perceptions, readiness, and barriers/enablers to the adoption of wearable devices for type 2 diabetes (T2D) management among healthcare professionals in Mexico, comparing views between junior and senior practitioners. Four research objectives were established: (1) to access the perception and understanding of wearable devices, (2) to explore and compare perceived benefits, risks, and limitations between junior and senior professionals, (3) to observe readiness and willingness to integrate wearable devices into clinical practice, and (4) to identify the challenges and facilitators influencing adoption. The central hypothesis proposed that junior healthcare professionals would display a more favourable perception and greater readiness for adoption compared to senior counterparts. A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted using an online structured questionnaire. A sample size of 103 participants (55 junior and 48 senior) was recruited. The survey consisted of Likert-scale items, categorical and multiple-choice questions, and one open-ended question. Results identified cost to patients, doubts about device accuracy, and lack of training as the most commonly mentioned challenges. The key facilitators included lower costs or insurance coverage, user-friendly devices compatible with existing systems, and training programs. Notable differences across career stages appeared in training needs, data privacy concerns, and the likelihood of recommending wearables to patients. Qualitative findings supported these results and highlighted barriers to adopting wearables in Mexico, including infrastructure shortages and limited professional familiarity with wearable technology. These findings are consistent with international literature emphasising affordability, training, and institutional support as crucial for digital health adoption, while also highlighting unique considerations for the Mexican healthcare context. This study aims to contribute by informing policy, institutional strategies, and targeted interventions to improve T2D management through wearable devices in middle-income countries.