Digital Weight Management Programme

In partnership with Suffolk and North East Essex ICB and 
ECLIPSE (Equality of Care Led Insights for Patient Safety & Engagement) 

Practice Pro Forma

Digital Weight Management Programme 

Suffolk and North East Essex ICB are introducing an innovative support programme to support practices with Digital Weight Management Programme referrals across Orwell and Sudbury PCNs. This nationally recognised programme empowers patients with obesity plus diabetes and/or hypertension to improve their health outcomes by making use of dietary advice and physical activity guidance and support. Patients will be invited to join a free NHS 12-week online behavioural and lifestyle programme.  

COHORT: Patients between 18-79 with obesity and who also have diabetes, high blood pressure, or both. Further programme details about patient eligibility can be found here. 

PATIENT ENGAGEMENT: Eligible patients will receive a text, inviting them to view an educational landing page containing programme information and benefits. This will direct them to their secure questionnaire portal (nhsconnect.org) where they can opt-in to a referral to the DWMP.  

PATIENT OUTCOMES:  

  • Improved cardiovascular health - Patient enrolled in the programme will have a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, diabetes which can lower the risk of early death by up to 30%.

  • Weight management - Patient enrolled in the programme will achieve and maintain a healthy weight while building muscle.

  • Improved mental health - Patient enrolled in the programme and engage in exercise will experience reduced stress, anxiety and depression and boosts in self-esteem. They will also feel more alert and productive day-to-day from better sleep outcomes. Increased overall cognititive function, including memory is another benefit.

  • Reduced risk or improved management of chronic diseases - Patient enrolled in the programme will improve their outcomes with chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and a viariety of cancers.

  • Stronger bones and muscles - Patient enrolled in the programme will benefit from increased bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

  • Improved balance and flexibility- Patient enrolled in the programme will reduce their risk of falls and injuries.

PRACTICE ACTION: Practices can access the list of consented patients via Eclipse (nhspathways.org) to complete a referral for the programme, without the need to contact patients.   

PRACTICE BENEFITS:  

  1. Streamlined Referrals and Reduced Workload: Simplified digital processes enable practices to refer patients efficiently through Eclipse, reducing administrative tasks and minimising the need for in-person consultations. 

  2. Improved Health Outcomes and Patient Engagement: Supporting patients in managing obesity and related conditions like diabetes and hypertension helps practices achieve better population health outcomes while fostering patient self-management through digital tools. 

  3. Alignment with National Priorities and Incentives: Participation demonstrates commitment to NHS goals, enhances the practice's reputation for innovation, and offers financial incentives tied to successful patient referrals. 

If your practice would like to take part: Please complete the below pro forma to activate the programme and give permission for patient engagement.