Review of cost efficiency and efficacy of delivering a diabetes education program in a southwest rural healthcare facility.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of redesigning the education program from individual instructional sessions to a format where the majority of instruction was provided through small group classes. Patient outcomes of lifestyle changes as evidenced by weight loss, improved glycemic control, adoption of a consistent pattern of blood glucose monitoring, and increased physical activity were evaluated using a physician satisfaction survey and a patient satisfaction and lifestyle change survey. The findings indicate that the changes in the education program accommodated a variety of needs; facilitated cost-effectiveness; were convenient for the patients, educators, and physicians; and still promoted adaptive lifestyle changes in behavior leading to improved glycemic control, increased levels of physical activity, and weight loss in persons with type 2 diabetes.
Schrock
L E
LE
Eastern New Mexico Medical Center, Roswell, New Mexico 88201, USA. lschrock@dfn.com
D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000032:analysis; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000191:economics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017048:Health Care Costs; D006801:Humans; D009516:New Mexico; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D019035:Rural Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015431:Weight Loss
D001786:Blood Glucose