Do you use digital health apps? Did you know they could help reduce your travel and waiting times?
The hospital’s Research and Innovation Team is exploring why more people are not using digital health apps. We are inviting women aged 18 to 65 living in Medway to share their views on digital health and stroke prevention, with a particular focus on those from Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) backgrounds.
By taking part in a short survey, you can help improve health outcomes and support more sustainable healthcare in your community. No previous experience with digital tools is needed, and all responses will remain anonymous and confidential.
The Women’s Inclusion in Stroke Education and Readiness for AI/Digital Technologies (WISER-AID) project supports the Trust’s Green Plan by exploring how digital health tools can be used more effectively and fairly across communities.
Kusal Weerasinghe, Lead Research and Innovation Facilitator at Medway NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Digital tools like apps, patient portals and wearables can help cut unnecessary travel, reduce extra appointments and remove paperwork. When they’re used effectively, they lower emissions, reduce waste and ease pressure on clinical teams.
“In working with the London South Bank University Research Team, our involvement in this study is an important step in helping us build a more sustainable NHS for the future.”
With many people still finding digital tools difficult to access or use, the study will investigate why they are often under-used and identify the behavioural, social and structural barriers involved. By understanding these challenges, the research will inform how digital systems can be designed and supported to be more trusted, inclusive and sustainable.
Emma Cooper, Carbon Zero Delivery Manager at Medway NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Digital transformation is a key part of how we plan to reach our goal of becoming net‑zero by 2040. The insights from the WISER‑AID study will guide how we design future digital systems, making sure new technologies work for everyone while also supporting a greener, more efficient NHS.”
By involving women directly in the research process, the WISER-AID study aims to enhance the relevance and usability of digital health tools, ultimately supporting better stroke prevention strategies and promoting health equity across the community.
Read more about our Green Plan.
