Diabetes Management: A Case Study to Drive National Policy Change in Primary Care Settings

PLAIN-LANGUAGE ARTICLE SUMMARY

Special Report

Reforming Primary Care to Combat the Diabetes Epidemic 

Background and Goal: Diabetes is a growing public health issue in the U.S., affecting 38.4 million people and placing a significant burden on primary care services. As the number of diabetes cases continues to rise, primary care professionals play a key role in managing this complex, chronic condition. This report explores strategies to improve diabetes care.

Key Insights: The report highlights several important areas for improvement. First, there is a shortage of primary care professionals. Expanding the roles of nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other health care professionals can help address this gap. Team-based care models, such as the Chronic Care Model and Patient-Centered Medical Home, have been effective in improving diabetes care by promoting better coordination among health care professionals. However, current payment structures do not sufficiently reimburse non-physician health care professionals, limiting the success of these models. Reforming payment systems to support all care team members and emphasizing preventive care is necessary. Lastly, diabetes disproportionately affects underserved populations, particularly racial and ethnic minorities. Improving access to primary care in these communities is essential for addressing health disparities.

Why It Matters: Diabetes affects millions of Americans, and as the number of cases grows, it is important that primary care physicians are equipped to manage this complex condition effectively. This report highlights the need for national policy changes to support primary care teams, including workforce expansion, team-based care approaches, and payment reform.

Diabetes Management: A Case Study to Drive National Policy Change in Primary Care Settings

Lisa Murdock, et al

American Diabetes Association, Arlington, Virginia