Diabetes impacts approximately 30 million people in the United States. More than a quarter of those individuals are 65 and older, making this a serious health concern for the elderly population. World Diabetes Day 2016 is meant to bring awareness to the vulnerable populations worldwide who battle diabetes every day.
The prevalence and compounded medical concerns associated with this disease are also what make it a critical component of Star Ratings for health plans. A health risk evaluation can help in several ways. Nearly 50% of all individuals with Type 2 Diabetes are undiagnosed, making it difficult for them to receive the treatment they need. Risk factors can be identified and further testing recommended when a member receives a health assessment.
Helping your members understand and manage their diabetes can help reduce the severity of their condition and reduce overall medical costs.
For members who have been identified as diabetic, here are two ways health risk evaluations can help with member care while closing critical Star Measures:
1. Close Star Measure C14 Diabetes Care – Kidney Disease Monitoring by administering a HbA1c lab during the assessment.
2. Close Star Measure C13 Diabetes Care – Blood Sugar Controlled by administering a HbA1c lab during the assessment.
Resources
Managing Diabetes — It's Not Easy, But It's Worth It
CDC Diabetes Complications
