Integrating artificial intelligence in community-based diabetes care programmes: enhancing inclusiveness, diversity, equity and accessibility a realist review protocol.
Journal:
BMJ open
Published Date:
Jul 15, 2025
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Marginalised populations-such as racialised groups, low-income individuals, newcomers and those in rural areas-disproportionately experience severe diabetes-related complications, including diabetic foot ulcers, retinopathy and amputations, due to systemic inequities and limited access to care. Although community-based programmes address cultural and accessibility barriers, their isolation from mainstream healthcare systems leads to fragmented care and missed opportunities for early intervention.Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technologies can enhance accessibility and personalisation, particularly for underserved populations. However, integrating AI into community settings remains underexplored, with socioethical concerns around inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility requiring urgent attention.This realist review aims to examine how, why and under what circumstances AI applications can be effectively integrated into community-based diabetic care for marginalised populations. The review will develop a programme theory to guide ethical, inclusive and effective AI implementation to ensure AI-driven innovations address health disparities and promote culturally sensitive, accessible care for all.
