Published on: November 18, 2024

DIABETIC FOOT CARE INITIATIVE: D-POC (DIABETIC PODIATRY POINT OF CARE)

DIABETIC FOOT CARE INITIATIVE: D-POC (DIABETIC PODIATRY POINT OF CARE)

NEWS –  State government plans to expand Diabetic Foot Care Initiative through D-PoC

HIGHLIGHTS

Analysis of Findings on Diabetic Foot-Related Conditions

  • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Detected in 8,437 patients (82%).
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease: Found in 1,234 patients (12%).
  • Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Diagnosed in 3,395 patients (33%).
  • A demo screening was conducted at Arogya Soudha from August 26 to September 5, screening 100 individuals.

How Does D-PoC Work?

  • Overview of D-PoC:
    • Comprises three interconnected devices linked to a dashboard.
    • Assisted by a trained paramedic for guiding patients.
  • Step-by-Step Process:
    • Data Collection:
      • Patients provide details about diabetes history, symptoms, medication, and other relevant information via a handheld device.
      • These inputs help create a diabetic foot registry.
    • Foot Pressure Assessment:
      • Patients step on a pedo-scanner to map and display pressure points on their feet.
    • Neuropathy Assessment:
      • A ‘Neurotouch’ device evaluates the level of peripheral neuropathy.
    • Blood Flow Tests:
      • Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) and Toe Brachial Index (TBI) tests identify blood-flow obstructions in the feet.

Creation of Digital Foot Twins

  • Purpose:
    • D-PoC facilitates the creation of digital twins of patients’ feet, capturing their full physiology.
  • Applications:
    • Improved Foot Care: Enables doctors to measure disease progression.
    • Digital Comparison: Allows comparison of predicted vs. actual disease progression.
    • Predictive Podiatry:
      • Utilizes machine learning algorithms to forecast foot behavior over 1, 5, or 10 years.
      • Aims to revolutionize diabetic foot care in India.

Future Plans and Collaborations

  • State-Level Implementation:
    • BeST is engaging with the state health department and private foundations to establish:
      • NCD nodal points in primary health centres and taluk hospitals across Karnataka.
    • Approval Process:
      • Proposal to undergo review by the technical committee.
      • Implementation to commence following budget approval and formal go-ahead.