Introduction
As practitioners dedicated to improving the lives of children, it is crucial to leverage data-driven insights to enhance our strategies. A recent study titled Dialysis More Available Than Patient Education in Counties With High Diabetes Prevalence sheds light on a significant gap in healthcare services. This blog aims to help practitioners implement the outcomes of this research to improve their skills and encourage further research.
The Research Findings
The study reveals that Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) programs are less available than dialysis facilities in counties with high diabetes prevalence. Specifically, DSMES is available in only 20.7% of high-prevalence counties, while dialysis facilities are present in 52.8% of these counties. This disparity highlights a critical need for preventive education to reduce the incidence of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) among children and adults with diabetes.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners can play a pivotal role in addressing this gap by:
- Advocating for DSMES Programs: Collaborate with local hospitals and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) to establish DSMES programs. Nonprofit hospitals, in particular, are required to provide community benefit services, which can include DSMES.
- Utilizing Online DSMES: Certified online DSMES programs can bridge the gap in areas lacking local resources. However, practitioners must also advocate for improved broadband access in rural and underserved areas to ensure equitable access to these online services.
- Reducing Financial Barriers: Advocate for policy changes that reduce the cost of DSMES for patients. This can include targeted subsidies or initiatives similar to those that cap the cost of insulin for Medicare beneficiaries.
- Enhancing Referral Systems: Implement adjustments in patient flow or electronic health record prompts to ensure that patients receive referrals for DSMES. Allowing patients to seek DSMES independently if they have not received it in the past can also reduce barriers.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the direct impact of DSMES availability on patient outcomes. Practitioners can contribute to this body of knowledge by:
- Conducting Local Studies: Assess the availability and impact of DSMES programs in your community. Share findings with local health departments and policymakers to advocate for necessary changes.
- Collaborating with Researchers: Partner with academic institutions to conduct comprehensive studies on the effectiveness of DSMES programs. This collaboration can provide robust data to support advocacy efforts.
- Exploring Innovative Solutions: Investigate the potential of mobile health applications and telehealth services to deliver DSMES. These solutions can offer flexible and accessible education options for patients in remote areas.
Conclusion
Addressing the disparity in DSMES availability is crucial for reducing the prevalence of ESRD among children and adults with diabetes. By advocating for DSMES programs, utilizing online resources, reducing financial barriers, and encouraging further research, practitioners can make a significant impact on the health outcomes of their patients.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Dialysis More Available Than Patient Education in Counties With High Diabetes Prevalence.
