Addressing Issues

Overview

Creating broad system changes is a challenging feat, even for the organization with substantial resources of staff and funding. For providers facing other challenges as well, the commitment required to make system-wide changes in the way diabetes patients receive care may seem beyond realistic.

When we look at the opportunity, however, and the potential to make drastic long-term improvements in the lives of millions of people, it becomes clear that healthcare professionals must take on this challenge.

This section addresses some of the most common obstacles professionals face when enacting a systems change. You may find other hurdles as well. You can submit your particular obstacle in the Forum Section (link) to see if another user may have a suggestion.

The most important aspect to remember is that a systems change is an ongoing process of implementing step-by-step improvements. All of the answers will not happen simultaneously, but over an extended period of time with incremental adjustments, evaluations and refinement.

This section addresses:

• Information systems, and how data management helps identify needs of patients.
• Payment policies, since proactive, continual care may involve phone calls, brief contacts and care divided among extended members of the team.
• Cultural sensitivity and meeting the needs of a diverse population.

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