The innovative new data platform that will provide patients and families, clinicians and researchers with unparalleled access to diabetes-related information and resources is on its way. As the DiabHQ project enters its second year, we reflect on the progress to date and what lies ahead.
What is DiabHQ? DiabHQ is an innovative new data platform that brings together diabetes data and resources in a foundation layer that will be accessible through customised, interconnected portals for patients and families, clinicians, and researchers. DiabHQ aims to accelerate research and translation, improve clinical care, and support patients and families in self-management.
Where is DiabHQ at? The DiabHQ project started in early 2023 with a Community Conversation that established the need for a one-stop shop for patients and families. The project team consulted clinicians and researchers to understand their high-level requirements and we worked with a Consumer Reference Group using a co-design process to explore the potential for a Patient Portal in more detail. A huge thank you to everyone who has provided valuable input to date!
At the end of 12 months, we have established the DiabHQ Foundation Layer and we are currently working through a tender process to engage a vendor to deliver the DiabHQ portals, commencing with the Patient Portal. The DiabHQ Steering Committee, including two Consumer Representatives, has provided oversight of the project to date.
All required Ethics and Research Governance approvals are in place and strict data security measures have been applied. Patients and carers are now being invited to participate in DiabHQ when they attend clinic or meet with their clinical team.
Clinicians and researchers will soon have access to proof-of-concept dashboards that leverage the integrated data set to provide valuable functionality ahead of development of the portals for these two user groups.
What’s next? DiabHQ will initially be implemented at Perth Children’s Hospital. User input throughout the development process will be critical to ensuring that the delivered solution meets the needs of the different user groups.
DiabHQ is being designed so that it can be extended to other diabetes centres across Australasia in the future. We received a lot of very useful feedback from participants at the Rio Tinto Children’s Diabetes Centre Symposium in July 2023 and we will continue to invite input from a broad group of potential users.
No matter where you are, we would love to hear from you if you would like to be involved as we move into the next exciting phase of the DiabHQ project!
Contact us at queries@diabhq.org.au for more information or to register your interest in being involved in the DiabHQ project.