Integrasi Edukasi Digital dan Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Melalui Pemanfaatan Virtual Assistant (VA) pada Penderita Diabetes Mellitus Kelompok Prolanis di TEFA Nutrition Care Center (NCC) Polije

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a highly prevalent non-communicable disease that requires continuous management. The Prolanis group faces challenges such as limited access to education, shortage of healthcare workers, and low digital literacy among the elderly. The Nutrition Care Center (NCC) of Politeknik Negeri Jember, functioning as a Teaching Factory (TeFa), has the potential to serve as a health education center, but its services remain conventional. This community service program aimed to integrate digital education and community empowerment through a Virtual Assistant (VA) for Prolanis DM patients, while strengthening the role of TEFA NCC as a digital health learning hub. Conducted from May to December 2025, the activities included chatbot-based VA development, preparation of educational content, VA training sessions, creation of supporting media, health screenings, and promotion through social media. Evaluation involved pre–post tests, observation, and cadre monitoring. Results showed that the VA answered more than 80% of basic DM-related questions, was used by over 20 participants, and validated educational materials scored above 75% feasibility. Training improved digital literacy by 20–30%, screenings raised awareness of routine monitoring, and publications strengthened TEFA NCC’s branding. This program effectively enhanced access to health information, digital literacy, and healthy behavior among elderly DM patients.