MWIQ - AI-powered decision support tool for diabetes clinicians
Managing diabetes can be complex because every person has different health needs. Researchers from the University of Dundee are testing a new software tool called MyWay IQ. This artificial intelligence (AI) program is designed to help family doctors (GPs) better understand each patient's condition. It predicts the type of diabetes, highlights the risk of future health problems, and suggests the best medicines to consider. In this study, GPs in Greater Manchester will try out the software during their everyday diabetes appointments. The researchers will look at how safe the advice is and how easily doctors can use it. The study also securely reviews health records from adults with diabetes at four local GP surgeries. The goal is to check if the tool is ready to be approved for wider NHS use, helping doctors make faster, more tailored treatment decisions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Diabetes is a common condition where the body struggles to manage blood sugar levels properly. Choosing the right care plan can sometimes be difficult because treatments must be carefully matched to each person's lifestyle, health history, and type of diabetes. To help with this, researchers have created an artificial intelligence (AI) software tool called MyWay IQ.
MyWay IQ acts like a digital assistant for your doctor. It looks at clinical details to predict which type of diabetes a person has and checks their risk of developing related complications, such as heart or kidney issues. Based on this information, the system suggests which medications might work best. The doctor reviews these suggestions, but they always stay in charge and make the final choices about any care or prescriptions.
This study matters because computer tools used in healthcare must be thoroughly tested before they are used across the whole NHS. Researchers are checking whether the tool is safe, accurate, and easy for doctors to use during busy consultations. If the software proves successful, it could help people with diabetes get more personal, effective care much sooner.
Key takeaways
- Tests an AI computer tool called MyWay IQ to support diabetes treatment decisions.
- Led by the University of Dundee and funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).
- Involves GPs and patient health records from selected practices in Greater Manchester.
- Patients do not need to attend extra clinic visits or take new trial medicines.
- GPs remain fully in control of all medical choices and prescriptions.
Who may be eligible?
This study involves both healthcare professionals and patient health records. Healthcare professionals taking part must be GPs aged 18 or older who treat people with diabetes within Greater Manchester. They must also agree to use the software and provide their feedback to the research team.
Patients do not need to apply to join directly. Instead, the study uses health records from adults aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with any type of diabetes and are registered at one of four chosen GP surgeries in the Greater Manchester area.
People under 18 years old and patients who do not have a diagnosis of diabetes are not included in this research.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you a GP caring for people with diabetes in Greater Manchester?
- Are you aged 18 or older?
- Are you an adult with diabetes registered at a participating GP practice?
- Are you content for routine health information to be reviewed securely for NHS research?
What does participation involve?
Taking part does not require any extra clinic visits, blood tests, or changes to routine care for patients. Everyday NHS appointments continue as normal. For GPs, participation involves using the MyWay IQ software on their clinic computers during regular appointments between August 2021 and July 2024. Doctors will answer questionnaires and take part in interviews to share what they liked, what was difficult, and how the tool affected their daily work. Patient records at the participating clinics will be reviewed securely by the research team to evaluate how well the system performs in real-life settings.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (8)
- Northenden Group PracticeApproximateManchester, England
- Cornbrook Medical PracticeApproximateManchester, England
- Peel Hall Medical PracticeCity onlyManchester, England
- Manchester MedicalApproximateManchester, England
- The Park Medical PracticeCity onlyManchester, England
- Brooklands Medical PracticeUnverifiedManchester, England
- Northern Moor Medical PracticeUnverifiedManchester, England
- Woodlands Medical PracticeUnverifiedManchester, England
Common questions
Will a computer decide my medical treatment?
No. The software only offers helpful suggestions. Your GP will always review your details and make the final decision about your care.
Do I have to attend extra hospital or clinic visits?
No. Patients do not need to attend any extra appointments or undergo extra tests for this study.
Is my personal medical data safe?
Yes. The study strictly follows NHS data protection laws and confidentiality rules to keep all patient information secure.
Can I opt out if my GP surgery is taking part?
Yes. You can speak to your GP surgery at any time if you do not want your medical records used for research purposes.
Does this tool replace my doctor?
No. The software is designed only to assist your doctor, not to replace their clinical judgment or your relationship with them.
How to find out more
Nicholas Conway
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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