AN INITIATIVE that “could help reverse health and social inequalities” in the North-East is set to showcase healthcare technologies that will be rolled out across the region.

Residents in Darlington are being invited to join an event pioneering digital tools designed to manage chronic conditions and prevent illness later in life.

The technology rollout is part of NHS England’s Healthy New Towns project, which aims to combat premature mortality rates and high emergency admissions.

Darlington was selected as one of ten across the country that will see specialist digital health services join Darlington Borough Council, planners, housing developers and NHS services to boost health and wellbeing.

The Northern Echo Arena will host an event later this month to highlight advances in health and social care in Darlington with guest speakers to discuss topics such as managing diabetes and monitoring the health of elderly residents in care homes.

North Yorkshire-based company, Inhealthcare, will contribute technology to the project.

Bryn Sage, chief executive of Inhealthcare, said: “We believe the Healthy New Towns project has great potential to reverse health and social inequalities.

“But this is not just about regeneration, it is about improving health and care for the entire population.

“Technology can empower residents to take control of their health and wellbeing and reduce their reliance on limited public resources.

“This event will provide residents and local health and social care providers an opportunity to have their say on the future shape of services.”

Project organisers state digital roll-outs will see patients with long-term conditions managing their conditions at home to monitor atrial fibrillation, diabetes, chronic pain, mental health and wellbeing and weight management.

Self-testing would be carried out before patients send their readings to doctors and nurses and receive instructions in return via an automated telephone service, computer or smartphone app.

Lunch will be provided at the Healthy New Towns event on February 27, between noon and 5pm.

To register, visit.eventbrite.co.uk/e/healthy-new-towns-whats-next-for-darlington-tickets-42315117656