Title of project

A digitally supported educational program for people newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes – a postdoctoral project

Abstract

Early glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D) is critical for reducing long-term complications, yet more than 60% of patients never achieve it despite access to structured education. Current patient education often lacks personalization, has limited lasting impact, and does not systematically integrate patient-generated data such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Building on evidence from a previous trial, where participants strongly valued patient-generated data as a learning tool, and from qualitative interviews highlighting healthcare professionals’ call for education as a prerequisite for effective interventions, this project addresses a clear and timely need.

The postdoctoral project will complete, feasibility test, and evaluate a digitally supported educational program for people newly diagnosed with T2D. The three-month program, guided by the COM-B behavior change model and framed as a complex intervention under the MRC Framework, combines digital education, in-person group-based learning, and individual CGM feedback sessions. While the overall structure of the educational program is outlined, its final design will be co-created with patients, relatives, and healthcare professionals to maximize clinical relevance, feasibility, and longterm behavioral impact.

The project is structured into three work packages: (1) completion of the program with input from an advisory board through co-design workshops, (2) a feasibility trial with 60 participants randomized to the educational program versus standard care, and (3) evaluation of feasibility, acceptability, and trends in effectiveness, with advisory board contributions to prepare for large-scale testing and implementation.

Anchored at Aalborg University and Steno Diabetes Center North Denmark, and supported by collaboration with Associate Professor and psychologist Elia Gabarron (Østfold University College, Norway), the Clinical Nursing Research Unit (Aalborg University Hospital) and Professor and endocrinologist Peter Vestergaard, the project unites expertise in clinical trials, endocrinology, digital health, behavioral science, and patient education. Its outcomes will deliver a rigorously developed and feasibility-tested educational program ready for large-scale evaluation and aligned with Denmark’s 2028 chronic care reform, with the long-term ambition of national implementation.