Full project’s name
Dialling up Health: A Non-Inferiority Trial of an AI Enhanced Telephone Lifestyle Counselling Service
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Principal Investigator
Carol Maher
University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Timeline
1/1/2024 – 12/31/2027
Other participants
Katina D’onise; University of South Australia; Australia
Karen Murphy; University of South Australia; UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences; Australia
Ashleigh Smith; University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Rachel Milte; Flinders University; College of Nursing and Health Sciences; Australia
Aaron Davis; University of South Australia; UniSA Creative; Australia
Ben Singh; University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Rachel Curtis; University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Dot Dumuid; University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Francios Fraysse; University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Jacinta Brinsley; University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Tara Cain; University of South Australia; Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA); Australia
Abstract
The global escalation of chronic diseases related to physical inactivity and poor diet presents formidable challenges for individuals and healthcare systems alike. These conditions, accounting for vast rates of morbidity and mortality, impose an unsustainable burden on healthcare resources.
While personalised lifestyle interventions targeting physical inactivity and poor diet have proven effective in mitigating chronic disease risk factors, their broad implementation is impeded by cost and geographical limitations. Therefore, scalable and cost-effective solutions that maintain effectiveness and are suitable for remote delivery are urgently needed.
Digital health platforms, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), offer considerable potential to bridge this implementation gap. These platforms present an opportunity to launch scalable, personalised programs that stimulate positive behaviour change and foster improved health outcomes on a population scale. This project aims to address this pressing need through the design and evaluation of an AI-based intervention for weight loss, physical activity, and dietary change.
Our project builds on extensive formative work, which includes a published systematic review, a promising feasibility trial, and a process evaluation of our award-winning first-generation AI coaching software.
In Stage 1 of the study, we will employ a co-design process with consumers, clinicians, health service personnel and software developers. This approach ensures that our refined AI-powered virtual health coach aligns with consumers and service providers’ needs and expectations while leveraging the latest advancements in AI technology.
In Stage 2, we will evaluate this innovative, scalable lifestyle intervention in a non-inferiority
Type 2 hybrid implementation-effectiveness randomised controlled trial in priority populations, including rural and regional and older adults. We anticipate the study will validate the effectiveness of a blended human and virtual health coach program in improving physical activity, diet, and weight status.
This model, if proven successful, could serve as a blueprint for other health services, showcasing the potential of digital technology to complement human support and extend its reach to a wider audience.
Research Topics
Physical Activity;Nutrition;Population and Digital Health
