The pilot project, conducted using Meddbase software, enabled the NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board to efficiently and reliably identify patients at risk of Type 2 Diabetes registered with selected practices in the region.
Eligible patients were checked against qualifying criteria and sent scheduled text message prompts over a set period of time, inviting them to participate in the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NDPP). The project trialled two methods of SMS communication – opt-in and opt-out invitations.
“There was a 1,000%+ increase in NDPP referrals – from an average of 32 referrals per month to 363”
The results of the study showed a dramatic increase in the uptake of the NDPP overall, demonstrating that digital communications, when utilised at ICB level and in partnership with the right technology provider, can have a transformative effect on patient engagement and participation in healthy lifestyle programmes – which rely on process and critical mass to operate efficiently and successfully.
