Empowering Diabetes Patients with Interventions Based on Behaviour Change Techniques

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Public Health
• Digital Health

Background:

• Rising diabetes prevalence across Europe necessitates innovative patient management strategies.
• Chronic diseases like diabetes require long-term management, highlighting the need for patient empowerment.
• Effective patient self-management is crucial for improving health outcomes in chronic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Action Plan Engine, a digital tool developed within the POWER2DM project for diabetes patients.
• To outline the engine's functionalities for guided goal setting, activity tracking, and periodic patient review.
• To detail the integration of 170 Behaviour Change Techniques and decision trees for barrier management.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Action Plan Engine with a guided workflow for treatment goals and activities.
• Implementation of a periodic review system to assess patient progress.
• Inclusion of detailed feedback on 170 Behaviour Change Techniques and decision trees for common diabetes management barriers.

Main Results:

• The Action Plan Engine provides a structured approach to patient empowerment in diabetes care.
• It facilitates lifestyle behavior modification through targeted interventions and feedback.
• Decision trees offer support for overcoming challenges in glucose monitoring, exercise, diet, insulin management, and stress.

Conclusions:

• The Action Plan Engine is a valuable tool for enhancing patient empowerment in diabetes management.
• It supports the adoption of healthier, diabetes-appropriate lifestyles through evidence-based techniques.
• The tool addresses practical barriers, promoting better self-care and potentially improving patient health situations.