Online education self-management programme in people with kidney disease
Living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) means making healthy lifestyle choices to protect your kidneys and overall wellbeing. However, many people do not receive enough clear guidance on how to manage their condition daily. This UK study tests a new online education course designed specifically for people with stage 3 or 4 kidney disease. Participants are placed by chance into one of two groups: one receives access to the digital learning programme straight away, while the other continues with usual NHS care and gets access later. The main goal is to find out if the programme boosts patients' confidence, knowledge, and daily self-care skills. Most activities take place online from home by completing modules and questionnaires. A smaller group may also be invited to complete simple physical checks and share their feedback in an interview.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work as well as they should. For most people, the condition is mild to moderate and can be managed through healthy lifestyle habits, diet, and regular medical reviews. Most people with CKD will never need treatments like dialysis or a transplant. However, many patients report that they do not fully understand their condition or feel confident managing it day to day.
To help bridge this gap, researchers at the University Hospitals of Leicester developed an online educational programme called 'Smile-K'. The goal is to build what doctors call 'patient activation'—the knowledge, skills, and personal confidence a person needs to actively manage their own health. The programme covers practical lifestyle advice, information about kidney health, and tips on living well.
This study compares people who use the online programme against those who receive their usual NHS care. By comparing the two groups, researchers can see whether digital learning makes a meaningful difference to how people feel about managing their condition. The findings may help the NHS design better digital support services for people living with long-term kidney problems across the country.
Key takeaways
- Tests a new digital education tool designed to build confidence in managing chronic kidney disease.
- Open to adults with stage 3 or 4 CKD who do not need dialysis or a transplant.
- Most of the study is completed online from home with no new medications.
- Participants are placed into either the online programme group or a usual care group.
- Taking part is voluntary, low-risk, and does not alter your regular NHS appointments.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to adults aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3 or stage 4. These stages mean your kidneys have moderate to severe reduced function, but you do not require intensive treatments to do the work of your kidneys.
You cannot take part if you currently need dialysis or have received a kidney transplant. The study is also not suitable for those who cannot easily read or understand English, or who are unable to give their informed consent to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am aged 18 or older.
- I have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3 or stage 4.
- I am not currently on dialysis.
- I have not had a kidney transplant.
- I have regular access to the internet on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
- I am comfortable reading and completing questionnaires in English.
What does participation involve?
Taking part mainly involves completing activities from the comfort of your own home using a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
In the main part of the study (Part A), you will be placed at random into one of two groups. Two out of three participants will get immediate access to the online learning programme, while one in three will continue with their usual NHS care and receive the programme after the study ends. You will be asked to fill in several online questionnaires about your health, lifestyle, and confidence. There are no new medications to take.
A small number of participants may also be invited to take part in extra optional checks (Part B). This may include a hospital visit to test everyday physical abilities—such as walking speed or muscle strength—before and after the programme, or an interview by phone or in person to share your honest thoughts on how user-friendly the website was.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Hospitals of LeicesterCity onlyLeicester, England
Common questions
Will taking part change my usual NHS kidney care?
No. You will continue to see your usual doctors and take your prescribed medications just as you did before joining.
What happens if I am placed in the control group?
If you are in the control group, you will continue your normal care and answer questionnaires. You will be given full access to the online programme once the study period finishes.
Do I have to travel to a hospital to join?
Most of the study is carried out entirely online from home. Only a small group taking part in optional physical checks will be asked to visit a local clinic.
What equipment do I need to take part?
You will need a reliable internet connection and an everyday device such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone to access the website and complete forms.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes. You can withdraw from the study at any point without needing to give a reason, and it will not affect your standard medical treatment.
How to find out more
Alice Smith
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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