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Disease Management Program for Diabetes (Article 6) |
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Helping your patients stay healthy can be more difficult when a chronic condition is present. Often, patientsneed additional help and support to understand their diagnosis, even to identify and manage their symptoms. For this purpose, Humana Military has established a Disease Management Program for patients with diabetes. |
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The main goal of the program is to support diabetic patients in following the medical management plan and standards of practice recommended by their physician. Participants are referred to the program based on utilization data and other clinical criteria established by TRICARE Management Activity, Office of the Chief Medical Officer. Once a patient is actively enrolled in the program, Humana Military sends a letter to the patient’s physician advising them of their patient’s participation in the program.
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“It is not the intention of the program to tell doctors how to treat their patients. The program serves as a supportive role to coach and teach patients how to effectively manage their diabetes,” said Rose Mary Royalty, director of case management, disease management at Humana Military.
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The program focuses on coaching and education provided by a dedicated nurse case manager. Nurses help facilitate the medical plan prescribed by their physician. Theyencourage patients to obtain recommended treatment and appropriate tests, such as:
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- Semi-annual A1C test
- Annual dilated retinal exam
- Annual comprehensive foot exam
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Along with the physician’s recommendations, dedicated nurse case managers support and encourage patients to follow their diabetic meal plan, incorporate daily activity and follow a weight-loss program as appropriate.
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Nurses are also available to help diabetic patients with questions and identify specific symptoms or potential complications. They also may coordinate special assistance like demonstrations for self-testing one’s blood sugar.
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“Patients often get discouraged and go off their diet, exercise and medical management programs. Having a dedicated nurse to work with patients to set and achieve goals helps them be compliant with their medical management plan,” said Royalty.
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For more information about the program, providers are welcome to call Disease Management Program staff at
1-800-881-9227. |
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Contacts (Article 7) |
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Created: July 9, 2007
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