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Diabetes control improved when inner-city patients received graphic feedback about glycosylated hemoglobin levels

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Abstract

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 percent 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.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medical Education, Abbott Northwestern Hospital # 11135, 800 East 28th St., 55407-3799, Minneapolis, MN

    Richard F. Adair MD

Authors
  1. Rebecca B. Chapin MD, PhD
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  2. Derrick C. Williams MD
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  3. Richard F. Adair MD
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Richard F. Adair MD.

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Received from the Department of Medical Education, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, Minn.

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Chapin, R.B., Williams, D.C. & Adair, R.F. Diabetes control improved when inner-city patients received graphic feedback about glycosylated hemoglobin levels. J GEN INTERN MED 18, 120–124 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1525-1497.2003.20367.x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1525-1497.2003.20367.x

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