Revolutionising young adult diabetes care: A 3-year journey of innovation, enhanced engagement and elevating standards

Published Date: 01st February 2025

Publication Authors: Balafshan. T, Sullivan. H, Keigan. S, Wilson. A, Strong. A, Banerjee. A, Gopalakrishnan. P

Conference Abstract

Background: Over three transformative years, we embarked on a pioneering project aimed at revolutionising young adult diabetes care. Our objective was to exceed national standards and enhance patient engagement through a series of targeted interventions.
Method(s):-Pre-appointment interventions: Phone call contact by a healthcare assistant (HCA) reduced Did Not Attend (DNA) rates from 50% to 18%, for our new patients, improving attendance and reducing wait times.-Increased support accessibility: A dedicated email inbox and urgent access clinic set-up for young adult support.-Emergency admission: Launched a project focused on addressing diabetes ketoacidosis and inpatient hypoglycaemia in young adults.-Diabetes technology: Expanded access to advanced diabetes technologies, empowering patients with tools for better condition management.-Key care processes: Focused on nine essential care processes, establishing annual audits to ensure continuous improvement in completion rates against national standards.-Pre-clinic questionnaire: A topic led questionnaire, enabling patients lead their consultations.-Mental health screening: Accredited mental health screening tool (CORE 10) implemented, to assess wellbeing and prompt psychological intervention.-Patient feedback: Actively incorporated feedback from young adults, fostering stronger relationships between patients and clinicians.-Transition clinic: A specialised transition clinic created to facilitate a seamless shift from paediatric to adult care attended by paediatric and young adult clinicians, monitored via feedback surveys.-

Strategic collaborations: Partnerships with DigiBete and Diabetes UK enhanced patient education through digital resources and support.
Conclusion(s): These initiatives have redefined our young adult diabetes care, setting new benchmarks for patient-centred care, elevating standards, improving patient engagement, support and clinic satisfaction.

Balafshan, T.; Sullivan, H.; Keigan, S.; Wilson, A.; Strong, A.; Banerjee, A.; Gopalakrishnan, P. (2025). Revolutionising young adult diabetes care: A 3-year journey of innovation, enhanced engagement and elevating standards. Diabetic Medicine. 42(Supp 1). [Online]. Available at: https://dx.doi.org/10.1111/dme.15498 [Accessed 4 February 2026].