Diabetes in the managed care setting: a prospective plan.
BACKGROUND
As managed care organizations (MCOs) continue to expand into the care of the chronically ill, the concept of providing cost-effective care with a preventive approach is vital for primary care providers (PCPs) to embrace. Diabetes is an ideal disease to incorporate this concept.


METHODS
We reviewed the literature using MEDLINE. We used the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Provider Recognition Program guidelines as the foundation for MCOs to establish a diabetes disease management program.


RESULTS
The implementation of disease management protocols, the use of computerized management systems, and the team approach can provide cost-effective diabetic care.


CONCLUSIONS
To compete in the managed care market, it is vital for providers to link with their Independent Practice Associations (IPA), the ADA, and MCOs to implement standard protocols and negotiate for adequate reimbursement.
Grundel
B L
BL
Crestview Medical Clinic, Fla, USA.
White
G L
GL
Eichold
B H
BH
D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000628:therapy*; D006287:Health Planning Guidelines; D006801:Humans; D007193:Independent Practice Associations; D008329:Managed Care Programs / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000639:trends; D010348:Patient Care Team; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted