Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Self-care is a way of helping the health service to manage the growth in long-term chronic conditions. We developed an Internet-based self-management tool for diabetes following detailed consultations with patients. The Virtual Clinic allows a patient to communicate with their health professionals, find information about their condition and share support and advice with others through peer-to-peer discussions. We conducted a test of the Virtual Clinic with five patients prior to the start of a six-month pilot study to evaluate its feasibility, acceptability and effectiveness. The test session involved an interactive computer-based element followed by a focus group to gather feedback. All five patients were positive about the Virtual Clinic. A user-centred approach to developing an Internet intervention is important to ensure that it will meet patients' needs and that they will be enthusiastic about using it.

Original publication

DOI

10.1258/jtt.2008.003002

Type

Journal article

Journal

Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare

Publication Date

01/04/2008

Volume

14

Pages

114 - 116