Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is a cornerstone of effective diabetes management. However, in many healthcare settings, SMBG relies on manual, paper-based logging methods. These processes are often cumbersome for patients, prone to incomplete or inaccurate data capture, and poorly integrated with electronic health records (EHRs). As a result, clinicians may lack timely access to patient data, limiting their ability to provide responsive and personalised care.

To address these challenges, the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CHAMP), developed by the National University Health System (NUHS), introduces a digital approach to SMBG. CHAMP leverages a WhatsApp-based chatbot that enables patients to log blood glucose readings via text messaging, and receive automated rule-based feedback on diabetes management. Importantly, the system is integrated with EHRs, allowing healthcare providers to monitor patients in real-time and intervene promptly.

The Telehealth Core, in collaboration with the National University Hospital (NUH) Division of Endocrinology, is evaluating CHAMP as a digital intervention in the diabetes clinic. The study aims to assess its effectiveness, safety, and usability against standard paper-based monitoring. A pilot crossover study with 40 patients with type 2 diabetes is being conducted, in which participants complete one week of standard care and one week of using CHAMP. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys on diabetes self-management behaviours and usability with semi-structured interviews to capture in-depth patient experiences. Findings will provide early evidence on the feasibility of integrating chatbot-based SMBG into clinical workflows, and inform its potential for scalable implementation within NUH and beyond.