Our Entrepreneurs: Kavita Sharma

Meet #OurEntrepreneurs. Introducing Kavita Sharma a Clinical Pharmacist based in the West Midlands

Tell us a bit about yourself 

I am a Clinical Pharmacist based in the West Midlands specialising in Diabetes. Having furthered my education in Diabetes, diet and nutrition, I have developed a keen interest in promoting healthy living. Being able to educate patients empowers them to understand and take control of their condition, thus improving health outcomes.

Name: Kavita Sharma, NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Cohort 6

Occupation: Clinical Pharmacist

Why did you apply to the programme and what are you looking forward to? 

I had an email through work regarding the CEP course, I looked into the course and what it offered and was amazed to find the contribution this course has made to healthcare. I took a chance at applying with my idea and luckily I was accepted.

I am looking forward to learning and networking with others in the healthcare sector. Also being able to apply this learning to improve the health of many more Diabetics.

Tell us about your innovation  

My idea is to help prevent the progression and development of Diabetes in the Asian community.

During my Diabetes training with GP’s, I realised a 10 minute appointment was not enough to educate patients about diabetes, it’s diagnosis, treatment options, monitoring requirements and complications. This became even more difficult for Asian patients as there was not enough educational material available in other languages.

Prior to COVID, I held a number of health campaigns in the local community, but during the pandemic this was halted. This is when I decided to produce various Diabetes educational videos online in Punjabi that could be sent out to patients instead.

I am hoping to produce a range of educational materials in various languages to help improve the lives of as many Diabetic patients as I can. This includes written materials, online videos and educational models. The aim is to set up a website where all of this information is in one place for them. My key focus will be on how lifestyle effects this condition and the simple steps that can be taken to cut the risk of complications.

Going forward I also plan to create some workshops and exercise classes for the Asian community focusing on Diabetes and healthy living. In addition I have began writing a bilingual book on Diabetes and healthy eating.

What motivates you? 

My motivation is seeing improvements in patients’ health by providing them with enough support to make better decisions about their lifestyles. Simple advice we provide can make a big difference in someone’s life.

How can we find out more?

To find out more please visit my YouTube channel – thank you.

TRANSFORMING HEALTHCARE THROUGH INNOVATION

Published by Lucy Dentice

Deputy Programme Manager for the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme.