Topic last updated Jan. 2006
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How
to Make Systems Changes
for Improved Care
Commitment
and Incentives
Despite the growing diabetes population and the high cost of this
disease, the person with diabetes is often poorly served by the
current health care system because diabetes management remains symptom
oriented and focused on acute illness. The principal clinical features
of type 2 diabetes--hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension
--must be managed with continuous, proactive, planned care.
Quality long-term management requires a systematic, comprehensive
system of care that serves the needs of both patients and providers.
1
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A system seeking to improve diabetes care should be prepared for
change on all levels. "Without committed leadership and resources,
it is doubtful that meaningful improvement in chronic disease care
can be achieved." 3
Senior leadership must:
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Identify the effort as important
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Translate it into clear goals reflected in policies, procedures,
and the business and financial plan
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Understand the mission
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Support personnel with appropriate resources
Physicians,
nurses and other providers need positive incentives to change. Economic
incentives can encourage health care providers to take a broader
perspective when considering how to keep people healthy. Better
reimbursement rates for brief interventions to assist smokers to
quit, to encourage exercise routines, or to counsel for weight loss
could motivate providers to undertake these behavioral interventions.
For more information about incentives for changing the system,
click here.
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