Improving access to diabetic foot exams for underserved communities
Access to diabetic peripheral neuropathy screening for underserved communities
This study is working on a simple and affordable way to help people with diabetes, especially in underserved communities, by using smartphones to spot early signs of nerve damage in their feet, so they can get the care they need sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Visionquest Biomedical INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10918922 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to address health inequities by developing a low-cost screening system for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) using a smartphone with thermal imaging and AI support. The project focuses on underserved communities, particularly among minority groups, who often lack access to necessary healthcare services. By integrating this technology into primary care and outreach programs, the research seeks to enhance early detection and management of DPN, which is a common complication of diabetes. The approach includes combining thermal imaging results with clinical data to provide healthcare providers with actionable recommendations for patient care.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals from underserved communities, particularly those with diabetes who may not have regular access to foot exams.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetes or those who already have regular access to comprehensive diabetic care may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve early detection and management of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in underserved populations, leading to better health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that innovative screening technologies can improve health outcomes in similar underserved populations, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
Albuquerque, United States
- Visionquest Biomedical INC — Albuquerque, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soliz, Peter N — Visionquest Biomedical INC
- Study coordinator: Soliz, Peter N
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.