Gemma Whitbread, DGT Antenatal Clinic Sister
Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust (DGT) is offering GTT@home, an innovative, home-based diabetes screening service, to improve access to gestational diabetes testing for pregnant women. This initiative addresses key barriers faced by expectant mothers, such as travel, childcare, and time off work, that can make in-clinic testing difficult. This helps to ensure that every woman at risk of gestational diabetes receives timely, essential care.
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects up to 20% of pregnancies in the UK, and early detection is vital in preventing complications at birth, ill-health in newborns, and long-term health risks for both mother and child. Traditionally, the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) requires several hours in the hospital, often early in the morning while fasting. With GTT@home, women can complete this vital screening from the comfort of their own homes, without the logistical challenges.
"Our mission is to make use of digital health innovation to make it easier for everyone to get the care they need, especially those who are already disadvantaged when it comes to accessing healthcare.” said Valerie Elderkin, Interim Head of Midwifery, at Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust. "By adopting home-based diabetes screening, we’re addressing health inequalities and demonstrating our commitment to accessible and inclusive care."