Quick Summary
Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust has launched a new initiative to provide at-home testing kits for women at risk of gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy. This effort aims to enhance access to maternity care and improve health outcomes.
Key Features of the GTT@home Test
- Remote Testing: The GTT@home test, created by Digostics, allows women to perform an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) from home by applying a blood sample to a test strip in a compact electronic device.
- Convenience: Unlike traditional testing, which requires expectant mothers to visit a clinic for fasting blood draws, the GTT@home kit is delivered directly to their homes.
- Data Sharing: After testing, women can upload their results via a smartphone app to share with their midwifery team for evaluation.
Implementation Timeline
- Training for midwives and initial setup began in July 2024.
- Full implementation of the at-home testing program was achieved by November 2024.
Expert Insights
Sadie Hafford, a diabetes specialist midwife, emphasized the importance of reducing barriers to care, stating, “GTT@home allows us to reach women who may have struggled to attend clinic-based tests, making screening more inclusive and effective.”
Carla Ancillotti, chief technology officer at Digostics, noted, “Technology has the power to bridge gaps in healthcare access and create more equitable systems. With GTT@home, features like NFC functionality ensure timely and accurate diagnoses.”
Addressing Healthcare Disparities
The initiative aligns with NHS England’s Core20PLUS5 framework, which focuses on reducing healthcare inequalities among underserved populations. Valerie Elderkin, interim head of midwifery, stated, “Our mission is to make use of digital health innovation to make it easier for everyone to get the care they need.”
Broader Context
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust began piloting GTT@home in April 2023, successfully introducing remote testing kits in February 2024.
- Researchers at Loughborough University are developing an AI tool to enhance safety in maternity care by identifying human factors that could impact outcomes.
Understanding Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels that develop during pregnancy and typically resolves after childbirth. Early detection and management are crucial to mitigate risks for both mother and baby.