Care Management Processes Important for High-Quality Diabetes Care

Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires ongoing care and management. Effective care management can help people with diabetes achieve and maintain good blood sugar control, which can reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, and kidney disease. 

Methods: The study conducted a systematic review of the literature to identify care management processes that have been shown to improve outcomes in people with diabetes. 

Results: The study identified 18 care management processes that were associated with improved outcomes. These processes included: 

• Systems for identifying and reminding patients due for testing: This process can help to ensure that patients are getting the testing they need to monitor their blood sugar levels. 

• After-visit follow-up by a nonclinical: This process can help to ensure that patients are understanding and following their treatment plan. 
• Guideline-based clinician reminders for preventive services during a clinic visit: This process can help to ensure that patients are getting the preventive services they need, such as eye exams and foot exams. 
• Telehealth: Telehealth can be used to provide care to patients who live in rural areas or who have difficulty getting to the doctor’s office. 
• Self-management support: Self-management support can help patients learn how to manage their diabetes on their own 

Conclusions: The study found that a variety of care management processes can improve outcomes in people with diabetes. These processes can be used to identify and address the individual needs of patients, and they can help to ensure that patients are getting the care they need to live long and healthy lives.