Do it yourself (DIY) closed loop for people living with Type 1 diabetes

We know that growing numbers of people with type 1 diabetes are using do it yourself (DIY) closed loop systems (also known as open source APS).

While these technologies are not approved by regulatory bodies and are not commercially available, users of the technology say their HbA1c has improved as well as time in range. People have also said that diabetes has felt like less of a burden.

Download our statement about DIY closed loop for people living with type 1 diabetes (PDF, 1205 KB).

Healthcare professionals have expressed their concern that legal or regulatory body actions could ensue through advising people on diabetes management based on data obtained from DIY closed loop systems. This position statement outlines our recommendations surrounding the use of DIY closed loop systems for people living with diabetes and healthcare professionals.

We recommend that people who wish to use DIY closed loop systems should continue to get support and care from their diabetes team. But healthcare professionals cannot recommend their use, and people using this technology must be aware that they do so at their own risk.

This position statement has been endorsed by the Royal College of Nursing.