Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common blood pregnancy-related metabolic condition
associated with significant short-term obstetric complications and long-term health risks,
including an increased chance of developing type 2 diabetes for the mother and metabolic
disorders in the child. Although there are biomedical management strategies for gestational
Diabetes is well established in Canadian hospital settings, and existing care models often overlook the
experiential, cultural, and systemic dimensions of care, particularly for newcomers and
culturally diverse populations.
This study will illustrate a design-led qualitative literature synthesis to identify system-level gaps in gestational diabetes care within Canadian hospital environments and to develop a
service design proposal that addresses communication barriers, cultural misalignment,
fragmented care pathways and limited psychosocial support.
In response, this design research project proposes a culturally responsive service framework that integrates multilingual communication tools, navigation supports, psychosocial
interventions, and continuity of care strategies. Rather than replacing biomedical systems, this
model strengthens the existing programs by improving accessibility, usability, and patient
engagement. Drawing on interdisciplinary research spanning clinical medicine, public health,
and service design, this design intervention will propose a culturally responsive service
framework that integrates multilingual communication tools. Navigation supports, psychosocial
interventions, and continuity-of-care strategies. This proposed model complements the
existing biomedical programs rather than replacing them to improve engagement, equity, and
long-term health outcomes for both mother and child.