DiabeTEXTs

On November 5^th, 2010, the first pilot project meeting for DiabeTEXTs was held over videoconferencing with

• Brian Beaton, K-NET Coordinator
• Robert Thomas, KO Health Coordinator
• Michael Mak, K-NET
• Moses Kakekaspan, Fort Severn
• Berthabeth Pascal, Poplar Hill
• Trustine, North Spirit Lake
• Greg Ward, Balmertown KO Coordinator

Brian, Michael and Robert had the opportunity to introduce and explain the DiabeTEXTs pilot project, and answered questions regarding the project and the phone from the different community workers. Overall the feedback was positive, with one member commenting how it was great it was for the younger “diabetics” who have cell phones, especially as an education and support project. Another stated how having a computer interface made it easy to communicate with a number of clients. It was also great to send the text directly to the individual for reminders or messages, instead of trying to find someone to relay the message. Some issues that came up were if a computer was unavailable for connecting the phone, or if clients didn’t have phones. In addition, privacy issues such as a telephone number repository should be considered. For the future, different avenues should be explored, such as leaving an automated message in Cree/Oji-Cree/Ojibway for individuals at home. 

For the full VideoCom meeting, please visit: http://66.165.220.194/viewerportal/vmc/player.do?eventContentId=2163

Many thanks!

M