How could technology help?
Many of the innovations and concepts explored by the Design Council team in helping people manage their diabetes could be more effectively introduced, managed and developed via the internet.
‘Technology offers greater scope for individuals to explore and develop ways to take control of their own diabetes management,’ explains Colin Burns. A central database storing information and advice generated by the health service, personal trainers, patients and support groups would enable users to
- maintain their own records
- submit test results from home
- book GP appointments
- obtain real-time advice and support
- learn more about the effective management of diabetes
- and communicate with others.
Unfortunately, access to IT is currently low among some of the patient groups who could potentially benefit most from this approach. ‘In Bolton, even those with access to a PC almost never use it for accessing healthcare information,’ explains Burns. ‘Only two people in the group had ever visited the Diabetes UK website – and neither had used it a second time.’
This presented the Design Council team with two challenges: how to overcome the barriers to IT use among patient groups, and how to encourage users to access healthcare technology.
The team concluded that the Me2 trainers could provide the necessary bridge to help their patients make better use of technology. Trainers could use wireless networks on their laptops to access technology in patients’ homes, carry out consultations using online tools and even use online versions of the agenda cards to help patients navigate their way to the right information. Trainers could share information about the best sites to visit for the most update advice, support - or even for the best recipes.
‘Eventually we could operate a blog, using simple email communication as a quick way to share information and point patients towards existing and developing NHS online resources,’ says Burns. ‘It could be used by both patients and coaches, enhancing the group mentality and improving communication across all parties.’ The response from professionals and patients was mostly enthusiastic, and participants could see the benefits that a more positive approach to IT use would bring to the overall management of diabetes.
