Dr. Kathleen Stevens wins international award for diabetic foot care research
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Congratulations to Dr. Kathleen Stevens and her international research team for taking home the 2025 e-Poster Prize at the world’s largest wound care conference!
Held in Barcelona from March 26–28, the European Wound Management Association–GNEAUPP Conference welcomed over 6,200 participants from 90 countries.
Their study, selected as one of only five winners from 1,547 submissions, identifies top priorities in diabetic foot care for health policymakers across five global regions. The project used Q-methodology, a research approach that gathers and analyzes expert opinion to inform decision-making.
Dr. Stevens, an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Nursing, served as Principal Investigator, with Dr. Ahtisham Younas, also an Assistant Professor at MUNFON, as Co-Investigator. Together with their international collaborators, the team worked to ensure the study addressed a global and policy-relevant healthcare challenge.
All e-Posters were evaluated and awarded the prize based on the following criteria:
• Visual appeal
• Logical layout
• Relevant, engaging content
• Clear conclusions
The award-winning poster, "Systematic Priority Setting of the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot Recommendations to Inform Health Policymakers: A Q-Methodological Study" highlights expert-informed recommendations to guide health policy in diabetic foot care across five global regions.
Dr. Stevens has extensive experience as an RN, educator, and expert in foot health, and is leading research that engages healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers around the world to ensure that patient needs remain at the center of care.
About her research, she says:
“Our research aims to shape health policies that save limbs and lives. Through continued engagement with policymakers, diabetic foot experts, and individuals with diabetes, along with new research partnerships, we're working to improve care and outcomes."
Dr. Stevens’ work supports the goals of our Strategic Plan – Leading Excellence, which guides our efforts to advance health, equity, and innovation through education, research, and service. Learn more.