Implementing electronic health record-based National Diabetes Prevention Program referrals in a rural county

Since 2016, public health professionals in a rural, Midwest county have collaborated with competing health care organizations to establish electronic health record (EHR)-based systems for identifying patients with prediabetes and referring them to National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) classes. The purpose of this program evaluation was to identify barriers and best practices learned from implementation in two rural health care organizations.

A purposively selected program coordinator from each organization and a primary care provider and information technology administrator from one of the organizations provided perspectives on initiating the referral process. Data were collected using open-ended questions in electronic survey format. Content analysis was used to identify themes.

Two barrier themes were identified: Timely, clear communication is challenging; and More education is needed for both patients and providers. Best practice themes included Start small with one provider champion; Create a referral process that doesn't exceed resources; and Providers should be actively involved in referral discussions and decisions.

Retrospective queries are a feasible way to initially establish EHR-based referral programs in rural areas. PHNs can facilitate this system change among competing health care organizations by leading partnerships, identifying common goals and timelines, and providing space for sharing challenges and best practices.