Health Together from Home: A New Initiative from the Digital Health Centre
KLiving with a chronic illness or being at risk of developing one presents significant challenges for individuals in their daily lives. Municipal health centres offer programs focused on self-management of chronic illnesses and the adoption of healthy habits.
Unfortunately, many people find it difficult to attend fixed-time programs because of work commitments, health issues that complicate commutes, or a lack of energy to participate in group activities due to psychological challenges.
A donation of nearly 5 million DKK from TrygFonden to the ‘Health Together from Home’ project makes it possible to connect with individuals from the comfort of their own PC or tablet at home. This digital solution offers newsletters, e-learning, and webinars with healthcare professionals that can be utilised based on the unique needs, motivations, and everyday lives of the individual.
A Strong Partnership Behind the Project
The initiative is supported by a strong partnership consisting of 20 municipalities, three patient associations, and Region of Southern Denmark. Together, they are developing a digital health centre that provides self-help solutions for individuals living with chronic illnesses, enabling them to maintain a high quality of life despite their condition.
The partnership has successfully implemented digital education programs for patients with type 2 diabetes and heart conditions, including ischemic heart disease and heart valve disorders. As a result, the foundation is well-prepared to expand the digital health centre to accommodate new target groups.
Three project groups bring together representatives from Steno Diabetes Centre Odense, the Danish Diabetes Association, Danish Heart Foundation, the Lung Association, Centre for Diabetes and Heart Disease, and various municipalities to realize this vision. The overall project management is led by Health Innovation Centre of Southern Denmark.
New Initiatives for Citizens with COPD and Heart Disease
The ‘Health Together from Home’ project will expand its digital patient education program to include individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, and various heart conditions such as ischemic heart disease, heart failure, heart valve disorders, and atrial fibrillation.
Additionally, the project aims to develop digital support options for a broader group of citizens at risk of developing or worsening a chronic illness. The initiatives will offer online support focused on smoking cessation, exercise, weight management, and webinars promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Funding
TrygFonden has donated nearly 5 million DKK to the project.
Project Duration
The project runs from January 2021 to December 2023.