Implementing a Patient Navigation System to Improve the Health of Women Living with Diabetes in Indiana

Background: Type 2 diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. As more people face the challenge of living with diabetes, health promotion programs focus on improving diabetes self management.

Program: The Indiana State Department of Health, Office on Women's Health launched a pilot program in April 2008 to improve diabetes self management practices among women in three Indiana counties. The program focuses on Healthy People 2010 Objectives for diabetes self management, healthy weight and physical activity. Patient navigators in each county work with clients for 12 months to set self management goals, provide access to resources, and help minimize client's barriers to success. Patient navigator follow-up decrease after12 months to measure long-term adherence.

Findings: One hundred fifty women are currently enrolled in the program. Most (85%) are white and 10% (n=15) are African American. Half of the clients are over 50 years of age (51%). About fifty percent (50%) are not insured. Most women have not completed basic self management practices at baseline. Ninety 93% are overweight or obese and over half report no leisure time physical activity.

Evaluation: Women enrolled in the program are assessed for needed self management services and barriers to success. Follow-up assessments for goal achievement occurs at 12, 24, and 36 months post enrollment.