Use of technology to track program outcomes in a diabetes self-management program

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Health Informatics
• Public Health

Background:

• Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) programs are crucial for managing type 2 diabetes.
• Effective tracking and marketing of DSME programs are essential for patient engagement and improved outcomes.
• Leveraging technology can enhance the efficiency and reach of DSME initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a technology-facilitated Diabetes Self-Management Education Program at MetroHealth Medical Center.
• To assess the impact of the program on key diabetes indicators, such as Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).
• To demonstrate how integrated technology systems can improve patient outcomes and program referrals.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an Access database for baseline data entry and integrated with the Epicare electronic medical record for quarterly updates.
• Tracked participant outcomes including body mass index (BMI) and HbA1c levels.
• Implemented an alert system in the outpatient charting to prompt referrals for patients with HbA1c > 8.5%.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in median HbA1c from 9.1% at baseline to 7.5% post-program (P<.001).
• In patients 1-year post-program, mean HbA1c decreased from 9.9% to 7.4% (P<.001), with 75% achieving HbA1c ≤ 8%.
• The implementation of the HbA1c alert led to a 40% increase in referrals to the DSME program.

Conclusions:

• Technology-enhanced DSME programs can significantly improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
• Integrated electronic health record systems and outcome tracking are effective tools for managing and promoting DSME programs.
• Proactive clinical decision support, like HbA1c alerts, can effectively drive patient referrals and enhance program utilization.