Katie Bounsall, a University of Plymouth graduate and experienced healthcare analyst, is leading an innovative research project that could reshape how Parkinson’s disease is managed in the UK. With a background in pre-habilitation and a strong track record in evaluating cancer care innovations, Katie brings both clinical insight and analytical expertise to this vital work.
Thanks to funding from the Peninsula Medical Foundation, Katie is developing and evaluating a new model of home-based care for Parkinson’s patients. The PMF’s support—totalling £46,000—is covering her registration, training, and access to essential research facilities. This builds on two years of prestigious funding already secured from the NHS Digital Partnership.
The project addresses a critical issue: the traditional outpatient model for Parkinson’s care is no longer fit for purpose. While GPs can manage routine aspects of care, timely access to specialist input is often lacking—leading to avoidable disability and suffering.
Katie’s research will explore how wearable technology—similar to Fitbits or Apple Watches—can remotely monitor patients’ physical data and alert clinical teams to early warning signs. Patients will also be able to request consultations from the comfort of their homes, improving both convenience and outcomes.
Before this approach can be adopted widely, it must be rigorously tested. Katie’s PhD will provide the academic foundation for this, combining technical development with clinical trials and economic evaluation. This is health research with immediate, real-world impact—led by a local team and involving local patients.
What does success look like?
- A fully optimised Home-Based Care (HBC) pathway, co-designed with patients and clinicians
- A robust technical and economic evaluation of the HBC model
- A comprehensive proposal submitted to the NHS for national implementation
- Katie Bounsall achieving her PhD and continuing to lead innovation in digital health
This project exemplifies PMF’s commitment to supporting research that directly benefits patients and strengthens the future of healthcare in the South West.
Author: Denis Wilkins
Photo: Katie Bounsal
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