DESP’S STORY

Engaging patients with relationship building and technology

As the Engagement Team for the Essex Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (DESP), our role is to increase uptake and to educate patients and stakeholders on the importance of Diabetic Eye Screening and the impact it can have by protecting vision. Engaging patients during the pandemic proved challenging, but with the use of technology including social media and Microsoft Teams, we have managed to maintain our patient forum, get involved with our local Diabetes UK groups and virtually meet with stakeholders in the various Diabetes Networks across Essex.

The regular meetings with the Diabetes Networks have allowed us to share updates about latest clinical news in the local area, uptake data and projects we are working on. Our great relationship with GP practices has also seen us advising them to process their practice actions, take part in our DNA audits and encourage patients about the importance of Eye Screening.

Funded by NHS England and Improvement, we launched an Essex Diabetes Eye Screening film campaign explaining the underlining importance of attending NHS Diabetic Eye Screening and this was very well received by our patients and stakeholders.

Engaging patients with  relationship building and technology

As the Engagement Team for the Essex Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (DESP), our role is to increase uptake and to educate patients and stakeholders on the importance of Diabetic Eye Screening and the impact it can have by protecting vision. Engaging patients during the pandemic proved challenging, but with the use of technology including social media and Microsoft Teams, we have managed to maintain our patient forum, get involved with our local Diabetes UK groups and virtually meet with stakeholders in the various Diabetes Networks across Essex.

The regular meetings with the Diabetes Networks have allowed us to share updates about latest clinical news in the local area, uptake data and projects we are working on. Our great relationship with GP practices has also seen us advising them to process their practice actions, take part in our DNA audits and encourage patients about the importance of Eye Screening.

Funded by NHS England and Improvement, we launched an Essex Diabetes Eye Screening film campaign explaining the underlining importance of attending NHS Diabetic Eye Screening and this was very well received by our patients and stakeholders.