Diabetes Program

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Diabetes Program was initiated in September of 2005 to provide comprehensive care for the diabetic patients at HealthFinders. Thirteen patients are currently enrolled and more will be included if they qualify for the program. They receive medical supplies, prescriptions, monthly assessments, and educational opportunities through the clinic. The program is composed of three basic components:

1. Medical Supplies

Patients receive a glucometer, log sheet, and glucometer strips through HealthFinders. Each patient is given one-on-one instruction regarding proper use of the glucometer and log sheet. This instruction is followed with monthly meetings in which the patient’s technique is assessed and patients can ask specific questions. Glucometer strips are distributed on a monthly basis along with alcohol swabs and lancelets at educational workshops.

2. Monthly Assessments

Patients meet with the Diabetic Program Coordinator and a physician once a month. The Diabetic Program Coordinator reviews the patient’s glucose log with the patient, discusses patterns in glucose readings, and asks about health problems, diet, and exercise. The Coordinator also tracks any recent lab work received by the patient and the status of the patient’s medications and prescriptions. After meeting with the patient, the Coordinator writes a detailed note for the physician, emphasizing health concerns, new lab results, and medication needs. The patient then meets with the physician for a physical assessment. The physician can make necessary changes in medication and self-care practices at that time. All information about the patient’s diabetic status is recorded on a database managed by the Coordinator. This promotes comprehensive care and accurate follow through with patients.

3. Educational Programs

Once a month, an educational program is held at the HealthFinders clinic. These programs are open to the public and all HealthFinders clients and are required for patients enrolled in the Diabetes Program. Each month a different specialist from the community provides information on a different aspect of diabetes including the disease process, nutrition, and glucose monitoring. Each of these programs includes a question and answer session. Patients receive their monthly supply of strips and lancelets at these programs.

BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM

Diabetes is a chronic disease with no cure. Careful monitoring, appropriate medication, and behavioral changes are necessary to prevent devastating and costly health complications, and promote the health and wellbeing of the diabetic patient. Patients without health insurance lack primary care and often do not receive the continuous assessment and care diabetes requires. Even at HealthFinders, patients are often seen by a different doctor each month. Through the database and Diabetic Program Coordinator, each patient’s status is monitored and comprehensive care can be provided even though the patient sees different doctors. This program also provides a means by which HealthFinders volunteers can ensure that patients are receiving medication and supplies as they are needed. Most importantly, this program empowers clients to take control of this disease by teaching them necessary self care and helping them adapt to this chronic condition. It is the hope of HealthFinders that this program will help diabetic patients live a more comfortable and productive life and that costly complications can be avoided through appropriate care.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF AN ENROLLEE

As an enrollee of this program, you play an important role in the success of this program and your personal health outcomes. Your responsibilities include: