International observer from Malaysia reflects on visit to LDC

Dr Nurafiza Mohd Arif

Dr Nurafiza Mohd Arif (Fiza), a Family Medicine Doctor at Klinik Kesihatan Bandar Baru Bangi in Malaysia, recently visited Leicester Diabetes Centre (LDC) from Malaysia to see how diabetes care, research and education is delivered in the UK. Having spent two weeks with clinicians, researchers, and educators at LDC, Fiza observed some similarities and differences between the two countries’ approach to diabetes care.

“In UK hospitals, I've observed there's a dedicated multidisciplinary footcare team to reduce amputations. Additionally, the UK utilises advanced technologies in diabetes care and offers a range of diabetes programmes, including the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme, and NHS Diabetes Weight Management Service,” explains Fiza.

During her visit Fiza also participated in a training session with LDC’s DESMOND team. The Diabetes Education and Self-Management for Ongoing and Newly Diagnosed (DESMOND) Programme offers training for healthcare professionals and lay educators to deliver any of the evidence-based DESMOND modules and toolkits to people in their local communities to support them in managing their diabetes.

Fiza continues: “I was fortunate to participate in the DESMOND training, and I found it incredibly impactful. The programme's structured nature, rooted in behavioral science research and rigorous quality development, ensures consistent delivery and high-quality care.

“Throughout my visit, I found every session engaging, from exploring the use of technology in diabetes management to gaining insights from expert sessions and participating in research initiatives. However, the DESMOND training stood out due to its unique non-didactic, interactive delivery style and strong philosophical underpinnings, which contribute significantly to its effectiveness.”

Bernie Stribling, Assistant Director of International and External Business Development for LDC said: “We really enjoyed hosting Fiza, her presentation at our LDC departmental meeting was extremely interesting and the photos of Malaysia have definitely made a few colleges start planning a holiday there!”

Reflecting on her time at LDC, Fiza adds: “You made my dreams come true with things I had only previously heard or read about."