Background: Within Australia, approximately 16% of women experience gestational diabetes mellites (GDM). Managing GDM requires consistent monitoring of maternal blood glucose levels, which is traditionally undertaken using a paper-based diary and frequent trips to hospital for clinical review. CSIRO in collaboration with clinical partners have developed a platform called M♡THer, that utilises a smartphone application and web-based portal to support the management of GDM. The platform has been shown to be feasible in an urban setting with over 1000 mothers using the platform. However, it is not known whether it is appropriate for regional and remote settings and for use by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers.
Methods: Recruitment will commence at Mt Isa Hospital Diabetes Service in May 2021 (n=50). Participants are eligible if they have a diagnosis of diabetes in pregnancy and have daily access to a smartphone. Data will be collected on platform utilisation and acceptability of the platform via user experience surveys. A significant number of the participants will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers. This study will provide access to technology to support them manage GDM in partnership with the Mt Isa Base Hospital and Gidgee Healing.
Results: The project will provide insight into the adoption of mHealth by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in regional and remote areas. Initial findings will be reported as well as a description of engagement with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Sector.
Conclusion: GDM is a growing challenge for Australian women and access to specialist care in regional and remote areas and for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community remains limited. There is an impetus to find better ways of supporting the management of GDM remotely, particularly for geographically dispersed populations and when social distancing is required.