Intervention for Diabetes with Education, Advancement and Support (IDEAS) study: protocol for a cluster randomised...

Area of Science:

• Digital health interventions
• Health services research
• Diabetes mellitus management

Background:

• High mobile phone penetration presents opportunities for mHealth in healthcare.
• Limited evaluations exist on mobile technology's efficacy in diabetes care in Malaysia.
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) requires innovative management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a telemonitoring coaching system for T2DM patients.
• To empower patients in self-management through technology.
• To assess the feasibility and receptiveness of digital health tools in community diabetes care.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Intervention for Diabetes with Education, Technological Advancement and Support (IDEAS) study using the UK MRC framework.
• Iterative design incorporating qualitative and quantitative data for intervention refinement.
• Mixed-methods approach to evaluate primary outcomes (HbA1c, blood pressure, cholesterol, quality of life, self-efficacy) and economic impact.

Main Results:

• The IDEAS study is a telemonitoring program based on empowerment.
• The intervention focuses on self-management through accessible knowledge.
• Primary outcomes include HbA1c, blood pressure, cholesterol, quality of life, and self-efficacy.

Conclusions:

• A mixed-method approach provides a holistic view of telemonitoring in diabetes care.
• The study will assess telemonitoring effectiveness and patient receptiveness to IT in community settings.
• Findings will inform the integration of digital health solutions for T2DM management.