Real-world digitally based diabetes management program implementation by a large employer.

Area of Science:

• Digital health interventions
• Diabetes management
• Health services research

Background:

• Large employers are increasingly adopting digital health solutions for chronic disease management.
• Evaluating the implementation and effectiveness of these programs is crucial for optimizing health outcomes and resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the implementation and initial effectiveness of a digitally based diabetes management program.
• To analyze factors influencing enrollment and utilization of diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES).
• To determine if expanded access modalities reduced geographic disparities in DSMES utilization.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive analysis of program implementation from May 2021 to April 2022.
• Analysis of administrative claims data to identify enrollment predictors (demographics, clinical attributes).
• Assessment of DSMES utilization changes and geographic access post-program launch.

Main Results:

• Program enrollment was low relative to the eligible population, despite responsive communication campaigns.
• Female employees and subscribers were more likely to enroll in the digital diabetes program.
• DSMES utilization saw a slight increase, but no significant reduction in rural-urban disparities was observed.

Conclusions:

• Digitally based disease management programs require strategic planning for successful implementation and engagement.
• Employers and health plans can benefit from insights into optimizing digital health program design and outreach.
• Further research is needed to address enrollment barriers and ensure equitable access to digital health solutions.