Innovation and Social Support for People with Diabetes (MEDIS)
For the MEDIS project, we are working with Fitcoins, Fontys and the Arnhem and Nijmegen University of Applied Sciences. Together, we develop and research new forms of support for people with diabetes. In doing so, we look not only at technology, but also at social support in everyday life.
Four concepts are being developed as part of the project. We are developing two of these: the role of the podiatry assistant and the use of the Diabetes Foot Check app with additional social support.
With this project, we aim to contribute to healthcare that better meets people’s needs – not only medically, but also in practical and social terms.
Background and rationale
MEDIS is a partnership of organisations dedicated to innovation and providing additional support for people with diabetes. The project is funded under the SIA RAAK scheme.
Within MEDIS, one question takes centre stage: how can we utilise strengths from the social sector in healthcare, and vice versa? To answer this question, four ideas are being developed within the project. Rondom is responsible for two of these: the deployment of podiatry assistants and the use of the Voetencheck app with support from the local community. The other partners are working on their own innovations in healthcare.
The podiatry assistant
The role of the podiatry assistant is one of the areas for which we at MEDIS are responsible. Within Rondom, the podiatry assistant plays a fixed role in the care process. The assistant helps with practical and preparatory tasks. This leaves more time for the consultation between the client and the podiatrist.
Within Rondom, the podiatry assistant plays a key role in the care process. We work with more than 350 (healthcare) professionals, with a focus on collaboration and quality. The role of the podiatry assistant facilitates collaboration between different types of healthcare providers. The podiatry assistant also supports the care of people with chronic conditions.
Evaluation of the deployment of a podiatry assistant
At MEDIS, we are evaluating the impact of the podiatry assistant’s role on our care provision. We are investigating whether this creates more scope for personalised attention during consultations, with less time pressure and more opportunity for explanation and repetition.
This gives clients more opportunity to ask questions, fully understand the advice and feel that their views are being heard. This form of support is not only pleasant, but also important for adhering to advice and making lasting behavioural changes.
The Diabetes Foot Check app
The second area for which we are responsible within MEDIS is the Diabetes Foot Check app with extra support from those around them. This app enables people with diabetes to check their feet at home. They answer questions and can send photos. Our diabetes podiatrists assess these checks remotely and get in touch when necessary.
Previous research (Technology support for Diabetes) shows that not everyone finds the app easy to use. Older people and those with less experience of digital tools, in particular, use the app less frequently, or send photos that are difficult to assess. It is precisely these two groups who could benefit from support from those around them – for example, from a family carer or a healthcare professional.
Evaluation of the Diabetes Foot Check app
At MEDIS, we are investigating what is needed to ensure that apps such as the Diabetes Foot Check app can be used safely and effectively. We are looking at what technical adjustments need to be made, as well as how support is organised in practice. The aim is to enable more people to use the app effectively.
Through the MEDIS project, we are working to provide care that is better suited to everyday life. By thoroughly investigating what works, we are helping to create accessible and clear digital support.
