STORK: Collaborative Online Monitoring of Pregnancies Complicated with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: A novel digital platform, named STORK, was developed in the COVID-19 pandemic when clinic visits were restricted. A study of its clinical use during the pandemic was conducted. The study aims to advance the state of the art in monitoring and care of pregnancies complicated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) via online collaboration between patients and care providers. Methods: This study involved 31 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM and 5 physicians. Statistical comparisons were made in clinic-visit frequency and adverse outcomes between the STORK group and a historical control group of 32 women, compatible in size, demo-graphics, anthropometrics and medical history. Results: The average number of submitted patient measurements per day was 3.6 ± 0.4. The average number of clinic visits was 2.9 ± 0.7 for the STORK group vs. 4.1 ± 1.1 for the control group (p < 0.05). The number of neonatal macrosomia cases was 2 for the STORK group vs. 3 for the control group (p > 0.05); no other adverse incidents. Conclusions: The patient compliance with the pilot use of STORK was high and the average number of prenatal visits was reduced. The results suggest the general feasibility to reduce the average number of clinic visits and cost, with enhanced monitoring, case-specific adaptation, assessment and care management via timely online collaboration.