While there is no cure for diabetes, scientific evidence indicates that proper management of the disease can reduce the costs of diabetic complications and increase a diabetic’s quality of life. Health plans have implemented a variety of disease management programs due to the high prevalence and cost of diabetes and in an effort to meet NCQA guidelines. This is a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of a voluntary, telephone-based diabetes disease management program on patient outcomes and quality of life. Additionally, the results of an independent patient satisfaction survey of participants are reported.
A pre/post study design is used to evaluate self-reported changes in patient self-management knowledge and behavior, frequency and severity of symptoms, and productivity as measured by days missed of work/school. Data from the telephone intake assessments are compared to data from 12-month telephone reassessments for 705 enrolled diabetic. Quality of life is assessed using the SF-12 for a subset of diabetic patients.
Preliminary results indicate improvements in patient knowledge and understanding of self-management strategies. Positive changes are seen in behaviors such as following a meal plan and increasing the amount of weekly exercise. Program participants report increased use of blood glucose meters and lower blood glucose levels after 12 months of participation. Additionally, participants report decreases in symptom frequency and severity. Days missed of work or school also declined between the baseline period and the program period. Over 90% of program participants report themselves as being “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the diabetes management program.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the poster session, the participant will be able to: 1. Articulate the components of a successful diabetes disease management program. 2. Describe the positive impact the disease maangement program has on patient outcomes such as patient knowledge and behavior, frequency and severity of symptoms, and productivity. 3. Identify changes in a patient's quality of life in response to participation in the diabetes disease management program
Keywords: Disease Management, Diabetes
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: The Access Health Group of McKessionHBOC
Diabetes Care Support Advisor program
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employed by the Access Health Group