Private MD News

Remote monitoring improved blood sugar management

Category: Diabetes

Blood testing to monitor glucose levels plays an important role in the ability of diabetics to manage their condition. When medical professionals monitor the results of these tests remotely it may significantly improve diabetics' ability to maintain their health, according to a new study.

Researchers from the Veteran Affairs Pittsburgh Health System tracked the health of a group of diabetics whose blood tests were monitored remotely by physicians who offered advice if readings reached unhealthy levels. The results showed that these individuals had much better glucose control than diabetics who received standard treatment.

The benefits of remote monitoring appeared to persist even when the researchers scaled back the number of blood tests reviewed each day, suggesting that care managers do not necessarily need to devote significant amounts of time to improve the health of their patients.

Findings from the study could play a role in improving the treatment of diabetics. The majority of health problems experienced by these individuals, including heart disease, neuropathy, vision loss and kidney damage, are the result of poorly managed blood sugar levels. Programs to improve glucose management could significantly reduce the risk of these complications.