DOCTORS' surgeries in York will soon be referring diabetic patients to a new digital pilot project to help people living with the condition get more exercise.

Leading companies from the tech sector are working with NHS England, Public Health England and Diabetes UK as the battle against obesity and Type 2 diabetes goes digital.

Patients will be able to access health coaches and online support groups as well as set and monitor goals electronically.

Some patients will also receive wearable technology to help them monitor activity levels and receive motivational messages and prompts, which is being made available on the NHS for the first time.

David Black, medical director for Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “It is great news that people in this area will be able to benefit from this innovative way to improve their health and reduce the risk of becoming diabetic.

“Type-two diabetes can often be prevented with weight loss, increased physical activity and changes in diet.

“This project will help people make positive lifestyle changes and stick to them through a range of digital and on line support, information and guidance.

“The convenience, accessibility and responsiveness of the project will fit well with people’s busy lives and can provide motivation just when it’s needed.”

Doctors believe this new, digital method has the potential to have a similar impact to a face-to-face intervention set up last year known as Healthier You: The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.

Those referred on to the face-to-face programme get tailored, personalised help, including education on lifestyle choices, advice on how to reduce weight through healthier eating and bespoke physical activity programmes. The new pilot offers similar support, but through the use of digital devices.

Simon Stevens, CEO of NHS England, said: “So much else in our lives is now about online social connection and support, and that now needs to be true too for the modern NHS.

“This new programme is the latest example of how the NHS is now getting practical and getting serious about new ways of supporting people stay healthy.”