Patients with diabetes equally satisfied with digital foot examinations
Patients with diabetes are just as satisfied with digital foot examinations as with traditional methods, according to a new study from Sahlgrenska University Hospital and the University of Gothenburg. The findings suggest digital tools can play a bigger role in diabetes care without compromising quality or patient satisfaction.
A study in Gothenburg examined patient and healthcare professional experiences with digital and traditional foot examinations in diabetes care. The results show that patient satisfaction is equally high for both methods.
Published in BMC Health Services Research, the study included 100 patients who were randomly assigned to have their feet examined either digitally using a clinical decision support system or through traditional methods. The aim was to determine whether digital tools could help standardize care while maintaining care quality.
“This study demonstrates that digital tools can make foot examinations more efficient and standardized without compromising patient satisfaction,” said Ulla Hellstrand Tang, lead author, researcher at the Institute of Clinical Sciences, and chief certified prosthetist and orthotist at Sahlgrenska University Hospital.
Highlighting digital benefits
The patients in the study had an average age of 66. After their examinations, they completed a modified version of the National Patient Survey and the Prosthetics and Orthotics Users’ Survey. Both the digital and traditional groups reported high levels of satisfaction, with no significant differences between them.
Healthcare professionals who participated in the study noted that the digital decision support system contributed to more structured examinations that adhered to clinical guidelines. The system also enabled comprehensive and accurate documentation in patient records. However, they emphasized the need for better integration with existing record-keeping systems.
“For patients with diabetes, regular foot examinations are essential for preventing complications. It is important to ensure that the care provided is both efficient and safe,” said Ulla Hellstrand Tang.
Driving new digital solutions
The study, titled How do patients and healthcare professionals experience foot examinations in diabetes care? – A randomized controlled study of digital foot examinations versus traditional foot examinations, provides valuable insights into how digitalization can enhance diabetes care quality.
The researchers hope the findings will drive the development of integrated digital solutions that support healthcare professionals and improve the patient experience in diabetes care.