How Chronic Care Management can Lend a Helping Hand for Diabetics

Are you faced with managing diabetes day-to-day? If so, you are not alone. 

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in the U.S, affecting one in every five Americans aged 65 and older. Diabetes affects all ages, and as our country grows, the disease spreads along with it. Like many chronic conditions, prevention is key when it comes to avoiding diabetes. Thankfully, programs such as Medicare’s Chronic Care Management (CCM) program works to help you manage diabetes.

At ChartSpan, the nation’s largest Chronic Care Management program, our team of clinicians works year-round to address diabetes with patients. Not only do we have a large population of patients who already have diabetes, but we also make sure all of our other patients are educated on the disease and how to prevent it, especially during Diabetes Awareness Month in November. Since this chronic disease is so common amongst our patients, we have put in place several care plans to make sure our patients are staying one step ahead of diabetes. 

A1C Control

Controlling blood sugar levels is one of the most important aspects of diabetes. At ChartSpan, our team of clinicians makes sure that diabetic patients know their A1C goal and actively monitor it. We work with patients to set SMART goals for achieving or maintaining their goal A1C level. Some of these goals may include:

• Regular blood sugar monitoring
• Following a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly (as approved by their provider)
• Maintaining a healthy weight or losing excess fat
• Taking prescribed medications as directed

If patients need to have their A1C level checked our team can assist them with setting up an appointment.

Diabetic Retinopathy Management

Degeneration of blood vessels in the eye is commonly found in diabetics. To help patients avoid and prevent this condition from occurring or worsening, there are tips that our team can recommend and build care plans for:  

• Regular Ophthalmologist visits
• Watch for and address any changes in vision
• Do not smoke
• Control blood sugar, diet, and take proper medications

Diabetic Skin Problems

Diabetes can leave patients more susceptible to skin problems. One of the biggest issues with diabetes is the potential for skin wounds to be difficult to heal. It is crucial to stay aware of any skin changes and address them right away so they do not contribute to more serious problems. At ChartSpan, our team will remind diabetic patients of these tips to keep their skin healthy: 

• Examine and dry skin thoroughly after every shower and watch for signs of abnormalities
• Apply moisturizer (not between your toes) and avoid those with fragrances and other harsh chemicals
• Inspect feet daily
• Stay hydrated
• Use a humidifier in dry months
• Protect your skin from the sun
• Wear well-fitting shoes

Prediabetes Plan

For the ChartSpan team, it’s important to stop prediabetes from becoming diabetes. We weigh heavily on creating care plans for prediabetic patients so that their condition will not worsen:

• Monitor blood sugar 
• Maintain an appropriate physical activity level
• Track food and drink for a healthy diet
• See your doctor regularly
• Get enough sleep