Means of communication between practitioners and patients are constantly changing. There is therefore a growing and urgent need for practitioners to be in contact with patients in order to support self-care that is good and healthy for the patient.
It is not always necessary for all patients to attend consultations in person. New technologies will be able to support close dialogue with the patient, and this can open up the possibility of an individual treatment strategy, help eliminate health inequality and relieve society of time-consuming and expensive consultations. New research will evaluate this hypothesis.
Research into improved self-care among children and adults alike will therefore, among other things, rely on health technology including:
- Specific clinical tools for patient-oriented treatment
- Behavioural support tools including apps and devices capable of monitoring many personal and biological variables from home
- Further development of insulin pump technology, sensor technology and decision and behaviour support systems
The psychological aspects of diabetes are another important component of patients’ self-care. Many patients find it difficult to manage their disease and comply with treatment agreements and targets, partly because of psychological obstacles. This makes it hard for practitioners to ensure appropriate diabetes care and treatment.
It will, among other things, be possible to use existing epidemiological data to investigate the risk factors involved in the development of type 1, type 2 -and gestational diabetes.
Behavioural risk factors may include:
- Physical inactivity
- Eating patterns
Emotional factors may include:
- Various forms of (chronic) emotional stress and depression
- Anxiety about hypoglycaemia
- Sleep quality
- Lack of social support
In all studies that include investigation of new medication or new equipment, the effect on patient-reported information should also be researched.
In addition to the above-mentioned professional areas, research will be carried out into:
- Hypoglycaemia in children and adults, both causes and consequences
- Prevention and treatment of people with diabetes with particular focus on prediabetes, children and young people, and vulnerable groups
Collaboration
It is vital to implement new knowledge at all treatment units in the region in close collaboration with general practice and the municipalities.
Research on the implementation of research findings in clinical practice will be concerned with patient education, communication and skills development of health professionals, as well as the impact of structural/ organizational factors on healthcare system expenditure.
Program Manager
Associate Professor Mette Rothmann
