Diabetes control improved when inner-city patients received graphic feedback about glycosylated hemoglobin levels.
OBJECTIVE
To develop and test an inexpensive visual tool to help patients with diabetes improve glycemic control.


METHODS
A multidisciplinary team developed a 1-page form, the "Take-home Diabetes Record" (THDR), providing feedback to patients by displaying per cent glycosylated hemoglobin (GHb) values graphically over time, with target levels highlighted. Patients with type 2 diabetes in an inner-city clinic were randomized to THDR use (n = 57) or not (n = 70) over 15 months. Self-care activities were discussed, linked with GHb results, and charted at each clinic visit. Initial and final GHb were compared.


RESULTS
Mean GHb fell significantly in THDR patients (-0.94, P =.003), but not in control patients (-0.18, P =.36). Mean GHb decrease was greater in THDR patients (P =.047). A greater proportion of THDR patients (51%) than control patients (18%) achieved a decrease in GHb >/=0.9 (P =.001).


CONCLUSIONS
A graph linking GHb and self-care activities shows promise for improving glycemic control.
Chapin
Rebecca B
RB
Department of Medical Education, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, Minn 55407-3799, USA.
Williams
Derrick C
DC
Adair
Richard F
RF
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000097:blood / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005246:Feedback; D005260:Female; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin / Q000032:analysis*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008910:Minnesota; D014505:Urban Population
D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin