Using an Electronic Health Record Alert System to Screen and Manage patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 in a Rural Primary Care Setting

Author

Simon KatumuFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-11-2019

Document Type

DNP Project

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Bernadette Sobczak

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Jerrica Ampadu

Project Team Faculty Member

Dr. Charlotte Chance

Keywords

Hemoglobin A1C, diabetes screening, diabetes management, electronic health reminders

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus type 2 is the 7th leading cause of death and affects nearly 10% of the US population. Early detection of this condition leads to the initiation of treatment and lowers the risk for complications and better outcomes. Frequent testing of hemoglobin A1Cs in those already diagnosed also leads to better management, glycemic control and improves health outcomes. This project utilized a feature in the electronic health record system of a rural primary care clinic to remind providers to screen at-risk patients and retest those who were either due or overdue for hemoglobin A1C testing. Hemoglobin A1C readings were compared three months prior to implementation and three months post implementation. The overall number of screening and monitoring hemoglobin A1C readings ordered increased and newly identified cases rose nearly 4%. There was an overall decrease in the number of hemoglobin A1C readings above 7%. This clinic enjoyed success with a reminder system and has incorporated it into daily practice. This reminder system can be streamlined to work more efficiently and expanded to other primary care settings to lead to better outcomes for patients with diabetes Mellitus type 2.

Recommended Citation

Katumu, Simon, "Using an Electronic Health Record Alert System to Screen and Manage patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 in a Rural Primary Care Setting" (2019). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 72.
https://spark.siue.edu/dnpprojects/72

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