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Diabetics have better blood sugar control with help from disease management programs

Category: Diabetes

Disease management programs may help diabetics stick to insulin testing and other maintenance prescriptions, according to a new study from a team of French researchers.

Given the amount of care that is needed to help individuals with diabetes maintain their condition, it is no wonder that many often become lax in their responsibilities. However, failure to follow doctors' orders is one of the leading contributing factors to hospitalization and death among those with the disease.

However, the research team found that disease management programs, which may include patient education, psychological intervention, dietary education, self-monitoring and telemedicine counseling can help diabetics stick to their prescribed care.

"This has important implications, because nonadherence to medical treatment is a significant predictor of all-cause mortality and hospital admission among patients with diabetes," said Clément Pimouguet, who led the study.

He added that certain aspects of disease management programs, such as the ability to consult with a doctor on a regular basis, appear to be more effective.