Test Your Knowledge Answer #448

Regular, planned health evaluations are a key component of quality diabetes care. At each clinical visit, the next visit should be scheduled at an appropriate interval to follow up on necessary diabetes care and monitoring. In this case, because the patient's blood pressure was poorly controlled and a new medication was instituted, follow-up should occur within 1 month to ensure an adequate response to the new medication and to reassess serum electrolyte values. In addition, follow-up is needed on the patient's progress toward the self-management goal he set. Organizing planned visits requires that the practice identify the logistical and clinical tasks necessary for the preparation and execution of the visit, including those listed below:

Practices also need to provide patients with lists of available community resources and programs to help support diabetes self-management beyond clinic visits. However, providing referrals, information about community supports, and additional diabetes education, although important, does not substitute for ensuring an appropriate and well-organized clinical follow-up at regularly scheduled appointments.