Technology‐enabled remote management of diabetes foot disease and potential for reduction in associated health costs: a pilot study

Diabetes‐related foot disease, particularly when associated with amputation, affects quality of life and has a significant impact on health care costs. A pilot study using enhanced technology to facilitate remote access and video conferencing from rural locations to the diabetes MDT through a new se...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of foot and ankle research 2021-01, Vol.14 (1), p.7-n/a
Main Authors: Main, Fiona, Zubala, Ania, Gorman, Jane, Jones, Sandra, Hall, Jenny, Macfarlane, David, MacRury, Sandra
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Amputation
Analysis
Coronaviruses
Cost control
COVID-19
Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus
Diabetes therapy
Diabetic foot
Economic analysis
Economic aspects
Economic models
Feet
Foot disease
Foot diseases
Health services
Leg ulcers
Letter to the Editor
Medical care, Cost of
Pandemics
Pathway
Patient satisfaction
Quality of life
Remote searching
Rural areas
Software
Technology application
Technology‐enabled
Ulcers
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Summary:Diabetes‐related foot disease, particularly when associated with amputation, affects quality of life and has a significant impact on health care costs. A pilot study using enhanced technology to facilitate remote access and video conferencing from rural locations to the diabetes MDT through a new service pathway confirmed high levels of patient satisfaction with 89% of foot ulcers improved or stable and only two minor amputations. A health economic analysis suggested potential for significant cost savings if this was scaled up regionally. Further evaluation of an integrated pathway, impact on lower limb amputation rates and full health economic assessment is recommended.
ISSN:1757-1146
1757-1146
DOI:10.1186/s13047-020-00444-6