BSPED2015 ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Oral Communications 8 (5 abstracts)
Ealing Hospital, London, UK.
Introduction: We present the use of WhatsApp messaging to improve engagement of young adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus at Ealing Hospital. This virtual community allows patients to share information and expertise in self-management to improve motivation, self-care and knowledge, and also bridging gaps between appointments. Patients find the diagnosis of diabetes socially isolating, and are 23 times more likely to suffer psychological issues. Social media is a hugely untapped resource and more people worldwide now have access to mobile phones than toothbrushes.
Method: All children with type 1 diabetes aged 11 years or greater were invited to participate from March 2015. Patients required access to a mobile phone, which was compatible with the app. Informed consent was obtained from children and parents. Patient confidentiality is maintained as the group is a broadcast rather than an open group, therefore replies are directed to the diabetic team phone, not the whole group, ensuring quality control.
Results: 16 patients are now members. Patients participated in the design process through a coproduction session and forum. Patients send messages to the group, such as snack advice and using new pens to motivate each other. They write questions and send pictures for their peers, which are forwarded to the group. Qualitative data of patient and parent feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. One mother quoted This is what my son needs, he knows no one with diabetes and often feels he is the only one who has to inject then acts out.
Conclusion: This innovative approach highlights the successful use of technology to improve patient engagement. Initial analysis of qualitative feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Further data will continue to be collected to show this how the use of social media can improve care.