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Da Porto A, Candido R, Rocca A, Manicardi V, Nicolucci A, Miranda C, Cimino E, Di Bartolo P, Di Cianni G, Russo G. Quality of care and clinical inertia in the management of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes: data from AMD annals. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:2595-2602. [PMID: 38436903 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02327-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with diabetes, and for this reason, all guidelines for CV risk management provide the same targets in controlling traditional CV risk factors in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes at equal CV risk class. Aim of our study was to evaluate and compare CV risk management in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes included in AMD Annals Database paying particular attention to indicators of clinical inertia. METHODS This was a multicenter, observational, retrospective study of AMD Annals Database during year 2022. Patients with diabetes were stratified on the basis of their cardiovascular risk, according to ESC-EASD guidelines. The proportion of patients not treated with lipid-lowering despite LDL cholesterol > to 100 mg/dl or the proportion of patients not treated with antihypertensive drug despite BP > 140/90 mmhg and proportion of patients with proteinuria not treated with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensinogen receptor blockers (ACE/ARBs) were considered indicators of clinical inertia. The proportion of patients reaching at the same time HbA1c < 7% LDL < 70 mg/dl and BP < 130/80 mmhg were considered to have good multifactorial control. Overall quality of health care was evaluated by the Q-score. RESULTS Using the inclusion criteria and stratifying patients by ESC/EASD Cardiovascular Risk categories, we included in the analysis 118.442 patients at High Cardiovascular risk and 416.246 patients at Very High Cardiovascular risk. The proportion of patients with good multifactorial risk factor control was extremely low in both T1D and T2D patients in each risk class. At equal risk class, the patients with T1D had lower proportion of subjects reaching HbA1c, LDL, or Blood Pressure targets. Indicators of clinical inertia were significantly higher compared with patients with T2D at equal risk class. Data regarding patients with albuminuria not treated with RAAS inhibitors were available only for those at Very High risk and showed that the proportion of patients not treated was again significantly higher in patients with T1DM. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, this study provides evidence of wide undertreatment of traditional cardiovascular risk factors among patients with diabetes included in AMD Annals Database. Undertreatment seems to be more pronounced in individuals with T1D compared to those with T2D and is frequently due to clinical inertia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Da Porto
- Diabetes and Metabolism Unit, Clinica Medica, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.
| | - R Candido
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Diabetes Center, ASUGI, Trieste, Italy
| | - A Rocca
- "G. Segalini" H. Bassini Cinisello Balsamo ASST Nord, Milan, Italy
| | | | - A Nicolucci
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology-CORESEARCH, Pescara, Italy
| | - C Miranda
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, ASFO, Pordenone, Italy
| | - E Cimino
- UOC Medicina Generale ad Indirizzo Metabolico e Diabetologico, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - P Di Bartolo
- Ravenna Diabetes Center-Romagna Local Health Authority, Ravenna, Italy
| | - G Di Cianni
- USL Tuscany Northwest Location Livorno, Diabetes and Metabolic Disease, Livorno, Italy
| | - G Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Russo G, De Cosmo S, Di Bartolo P, Lucisano G, Manicardi V, Nicolucci A, Rocca A, Rossi MC, Di Cianni G, Candido R. The quality of care in type 1 and type 2 diabetes - A 2023 update of the AMD Annals initiative. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2024; 213:111743. [PMID: 38878867 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2024.111743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
AIMS An initiative of continuous monitoring of the quality of diabetes care, promoted by the Association of Medical Diabetologists, is in place in Italy since 2006 (AMD Annals). The initiative was effective in improving quality of care indicators, assessed periodically through standardized measures. Here, we show the 2023 AMD Annals data on type 2 (T2D) and type 1 (T1D) diabetes. METHODS A network of over 1/3 of diabetes centers in Italy periodically extracts anonymous data from electronic medical records, using a standardized software. Process, treatment and outcome indicators, and a validated score of overall care, the Q-score, were evaluated. RESULTS 296 centers provided data on 573,164 T2D (mean age 69.7 ± 11.2 years) and 42,611 T1D subjects (mean age 48.6 ± 16.9 years). A HbA1c value ≤ 7.0 % was documented in 56.3 % of patients with T2D and 35.9 % of those with T1D. Only 6.6 % of T2D patients and 3.5 % of those with T1D reached the composite outcome of HbA1c ≤ 7.0 % + LDL-C < 70 mg/dl + BP < 130/80 mmHg. Notably, only 2.8 % and 3.2 % of T2D and T1D patients, respectively, showed a Q score < 15, which correlates with an 80 % higher risk of incident CVD events compared to scores > 25. CONCLUSIONS We documented an overall good quality of care in both T1D and T2D subjects. However, the failure to achieve the targets of the main risk factors, especially if combined, in a still too large proportion of patients testify the difficulty to apply the more and more stringent indications recommended by guidelines in the everyday clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - S De Cosmo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Scientific Institute "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy.
| | - P Di Bartolo
- Ravenna Diabetes Center - Romagna Local Health Authority, Ravenna, Italy
| | - G Lucisano
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology - CORESEARCH SRL, Pescara, Italy
| | | | - A Nicolucci
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology - CORESEARCH SRL, Pescara, Italy
| | - A Rocca
- AMD Annals Study Group, Monza, Italy
| | - M C Rossi
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology - CORESEARCH SRL, Pescara, Italy
| | - G Di Cianni
- Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Health Local Unit North-West Tuscany, Livorno, Italy
| | - R Candido
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Diabetes Center, ASUGI, Trieste, Italy
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Iezadi S, Gholipour K, Sherbafi J, Behpaie S, Soltani N, Pasha M, Farahishahgoli J. Service quality: perspective of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension in rural and urban public primary healthcare centers in Iran. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:517. [PMID: 38658925 PMCID: PMC11044473 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10854-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the service quality (SQ) for Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension in primary healthcare settings from the perspective of service users in Iran. METHODS The Cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2020 in urban and rural public health centers in the East Azerbaijan province of Iran. A total of 561 individuals aged 18 or above with either or both conditions of T2DM and hypertension were eligible to participate in the study. The study employed a two-step stratified sampling method in East Azerbaijan province, Iran. A validated questionnaire assessed SQ. Data were analyzed using One-way ANOVA and multiple linear regression statistical models in STATA-17. RESULTS Among the 561 individuals who participated in the study 176 (31.3%) were individuals with hypertension, 165 (29.4%) with T2DM, and 220 (39.2%) with both hypertension and T2DM mutually. The participants' anthropometric indicators and biochemical characteristics showed that the mean Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) in individuals with T2DM was 174.4 (Standard deviation (SD) = 73.57) in patients with T2DM without hypertension and 159.4 (SD = 65.46) in patients with both T2DM and hypertension. The total SQ scores were 82.37 (SD = 12.19), 82.48 (SD = 12.45), and 81.69 (SD = 11.75) for hypertension, T2DM, and both conditions, respectively. Among people with hypertension and without diabetes, those who had specific service providers had higher SQ scores (b = 7.03; p = 0.001) compared to their peers who did not have specific service providers. Those who resided in rural areas had lower SQ scores (b = -6.07; p = 0.020) compared to their counterparts in urban areas. In the group of patients with T2DM and without hypertension, those who were living in non-metropolitan cities reported greater SQ scores compared to patients in metropolitan areas (b = 5.09; p = 0.038). Additionally, a one-point increase in self-management total score was related with a 0.13-point decrease in SQ score (P = 0.018). In the group of people with both hypertension and T2DM, those who had specific service providers had higher SQ scores (b = 8.32; p < 0.001) compared to the group without specific service providers. CONCLUSION Study reveals gaps in T2DM and hypertension care quality despite routine check-ups. Higher SQ correlates with better self-care. Improving service quality in primary healthcare settings necessitates a comprehensive approach that prioritizes patient empowerment, continuity of care, and equitable access to services, particularly for vulnerable populations in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Iezadi
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kamal Gholipour
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Jabraeil Sherbafi
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sama Behpaie
- Student Research Committee, Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazli Soltani
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohsen Pasha
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Javad Farahishahgoli
- East Azerbaijan Provincial Health Centre, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Giandalia A, Russo GT, Ruggeri P, Giancaterini A, Brun E, Cristofaro M, Bogazzi A, Rossi MC, Lucisano G, Rocca A, Manicardi V, Bartolo PD, Cianni GD, Giuliani C, Napoli A. The Burden of Obesity in Type 1 Diabetic Subjects: A Sex-specific Analysis From the AMD Annals Initiative. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e1224-e1235. [PMID: 37247381 PMCID: PMC10584007 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Obesity is a growing emergency in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Sex differences in obesity prevalence and its clinical consequences in adult T1D subjects have been poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of obesity and severe obesity, clinical correlates, and potential sex differences in a large cohort of T1D subjects participating to the AMD (Associazione Medici Diabetologi) Annals Initiative in Italy. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The prevalence of obesity [body mass index(BMI) ≥30 kg/m2] and severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) according to sex and age, as well as obesity-associated clinical variables, long-term diabetes complications, pharmacological treatment, process indicators and outcomes, and overall quality of care (Q-score) were evaluated in 37 436 T1D subjects (45.3% women) attending 282 Italian diabetes clinics during 2019. RESULTS Overall, the prevalence of obesity was similar in the 2 sexes (13.0% in men and 13.9% in women; mean age 50 years), and it increased with age, affecting 1 out of 6 subjects ages >65 years. Only severe obesity (BMI >35 kg/m2) was more prevalent among women, who showed a 45% higher risk of severe obesity, compared with men at multivariate analysis. Cardiovascular disease risk factors (lipid profile, glucose, and blood pressure control), and the overall quality of diabetes care were worse in obese subjects, with no major sex-related differences. Also, micro- and macrovascular complications were more frequent among obese than nonobese T1D men and women. CONCLUSIONS Obesity is a frequent finding in T1D adult subjects, and it is associated with a higher burden of cardiovascular disease risk factors, micro- and macrovascular complications, and a lower quality of care, with no major sex differences. T1D women are at higher risk of severe obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Giandalia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Annalisa Giancaterini
- UOSD Endocrine, Metabolic and Nutrition Diseases, ASST Brianza, Desio Hospital, 20832 Desio, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Brun
- UOC Endocrine, Metabolic and Nutrition Diseases, Ospedale Civile di Vicenza, 36100 Vicenza, Italy
| | | | - Anna Bogazzi
- SSVD Diabetes and Endocrine Diseases, ASL TO 3, 10024 Torino, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Rossi
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, 75100 Pescara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucisano
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, 75100 Pescara, Italy
| | - Alberto Rocca
- SS Diabetes and Metabolic disease, Bassini Hospital, Cinisello Balsamo, 20019 Milano, Italy
| | | | | | - Graziano Di Cianni
- Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Health Local Unit North-West Tuscany, 57100 Livorno, Italy
| | - Chiara Giuliani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00044 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Napoli
- Israelitico Hospital, 00044 Rome, Italy
- Cdc Santa Famiglia, 00044 Rome, Italy
- Human Nutrition Sciences, International Medical University Unicamillus, 00044 Rome, Italy
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Li PI, Guo HR. Long-term quality-of-care score for predicting the occurrence of acute myocardial infarction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. World J Diabetes 2023; 14:1091-1102. [PMID: 37547581 PMCID: PMC10401448 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v14.i7.1091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, and diabetes mellitus (DM) is a well-established risk factor. Among the risk factors for CVD, DM is a major modifiable factor. In the fatal CVD outcomes, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the most common cause of death. AIM To develop a long-term quality-of-care score for predicting the occurrence of AMI among patients with type 2 DM on the basis of the hypothesis that good quality of care can reduce the risk of AMI in patients with DM. METHODS Using Taiwan's Longitudinal Cohort of Diabetes Patient Database and the medical charts of a medical center, we identified incident patients diagnosed with type 2 DM from 1999 to 2003 and followed them until 2011. We constructed a summary quality-of-care score (with values ranging from 0 to 8) with process indicators (frequencies of HbA1c and lipid profile testing and urine, foot and retinal examinations), intermediate outcome indicators (low-density lipoprotein, blood pressure and HbA1c), and co-morbidity of hypertension. The associations between the score and the incidence of AMI were evaluated using Cox regression models. RESULTS A total of 7351 patients who had sufficient information to calculate the score were enrolled. In comparison with participants who had scores ≤ 1, those with scores between 2 and 4 had a lower risk of developing AMI [adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) = 0.71; 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.55-0.90], and those with scores ≥ 5 had an even lower risk (AHR = 0.37; 95%CI: 0.21-0.66). CONCLUSION Good quality of care can reduce the risk of AMI in patients with type 2 DM. The quality-of-care score developed in this study had a significant association with the risk of AMI and thus can be applied to guiding the care for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pi-I Li
- Department of Family Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan 710, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 717, Taiwan
| | - How-Ran Guo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 704, Taiwan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan 704, Taiwan
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Masi D, Zilich R, Candido R, Giancaterini A, Guaita G, Muselli M, Ponzani P, Santin P, Verda D, Musacchio N. Uncovering Predictors of Lipid Goal Attainment in Type 2 Diabetes Outpatients Using Logic Learning Machine: Insights from the AMD Annals and AMD Artificial Intelligence Study Group. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4095. [PMID: 37373787 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12124095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying and treating lipid abnormalities is crucial for preventing cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients, yet only two-thirds of patients reach recommended cholesterol levels. Elucidating the factors associated with lipid goal attainment represents an unmet clinical need. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a real-world analysis of the lipid profiles of 11.252 patients from the Annals of the Italian Association of Medical Diabetologists (AMD) database from 2005 to 2019. We used a Logic Learning Machine (LLM) to extract and classify the most relevant variables predicting the achievement of a low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) value lower than 100 mg/dL (2.60 mmol/L) within two years of the start of lipid-lowering therapy. Our analysis showed that 61.4% of the patients achieved the treatment goal. The LLM model demonstrated good predictive performance, with a precision of 0.78, accuracy of 0.69, recall of 0.70, F1 Score of 0.74, and ROC-AUC of 0.79. The most significant predictors of achieving the treatment goal were LDL-C values at the start of lipid-lowering therapy and their reduction after six months. Other predictors of a greater likelihood of reaching the target included high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, albuminuria, and body mass index at baseline, as well as younger age, male sex, more follow-up visits, no therapy discontinuation, higher Q-score, lower blood glucose and HbA1c levels, and the use of anti-hypertensive medication. At baseline, for each LDL-C range analysed, the LLM model also provided the minimum reduction that needs to be achieved by the next six-month visit to increase the likelihood of reaching the therapeutic goal within two years. These findings could serve as a useful tool to inform therapeutic decisions and to encourage further in-depth analysis and testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Masi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Candido
- Associazione Medici Diabetologi, Giuliano Isontina University Health Service, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Annalisa Giancaterini
- UOSD Diabetology, Department of Exchange and Nutrition Diseases, Brianza Health Service, Pio XI Hospital, 20833 Desio, Italy
| | - Giacomo Guaita
- Diabetes and Endocrinology Unit, ASL SULCIS, 9016 Iglesias, Italy
| | - Marco Muselli
- Rulex Innovation Labs, Rulex Inc., 16122 Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Ponzani
- Diabetes and Metabolic Disease Unit, ASL 4 Liguria, 16043 Chiavari, Italy
| | | | - Damiano Verda
- Rulex Innovation Labs, Rulex Inc., 16122 Genoa, Italy
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Russo G, Di Bartolo P, Candido R, Lucisano G, Manicardi V, Giandalia A, Nicolucci A, Rocca A, Rossi MC, Di Cianni G. The AMD ANNALS: A continuous initiative for the improvement of type 2 diabetes care. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2023; 199:110672. [PMID: 37084893 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2023.110672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Since 2006, the Italian AMD (Associations of Medical Diabetologists) Annals Initiative promoted a continuous monitoring of the quality of diabetes care, that was effective in improving process, treatment and outcome indicators through a periodic assessment of standardized measures. Here, we show the 2022 AMD Annals data on type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS A network involving ∼1/3 of diabetes centers in Italy periodically extracts anonymous data from electronic clinical records, by a standardized software. Process, treatment and outcome indicators, and a validated score of overall care, the Q-score, were evaluated. RESULTS 295 centers provided the annual sample of 502,747 T2D patients. Overall, HbA1c value ≤7.0% was documented in 54.6% of patients, blood pressure <130/80 mmHg in 23.0%, and LDL-cholesterol levels <70 mg/dl in 34.3%, but only 5.2% were at- target for all the risk factors. As for innovative drugs, 29.0% of patients were on SGLT2-i, and 27.5% on GLP1-RAs. In particular, 59.7% were treated with either GLP1-RAs or SGLT2-i among those with established cardiovascular disease (CVD), 26.6% and 49.3% with SGLT2-i among those with impaired renal function and heart failure, respectively. Notably, only 3.2% of T2D patients showed a Q score <15, which correlates with a 80% higher risk of incident CVD events compared to scores >25. CONCLUSIONS The 2022 AMD Annals data show an improvement in the use of innovative drugs and in the overall quality of T2D care in everyday clinical practice. However, additional efforts are needed to reach the recommended targets for HbA1c and major CVD risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
| | - P Di Bartolo
- Ravenna Diabetes Center - Romagna Local Health Authority, Ravenna, Italy
| | - R Candido
- Department of Medical Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Diabetes Center, ASUGI, Trieste, Italy
| | - G Lucisano
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology - CORESEARCH, Pescara, Italy
| | | | - A Giandalia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - A Nicolucci
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology - CORESEARCH, Pescara, Italy
| | - A Rocca
- "G. Segalini" H. Bassini Cinisello Balsamo ASST Nord, Milan, Italy
| | - M C Rossi
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology - CORESEARCH, Pescara, Italy
| | - G Di Cianni
- USL Tuscany Northwest Location Livorno, Diabetes and Metabolic Disease, Livorno, Italy
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Russo GT, Andreozzi F, Calabrese M, Di Bartolo P, Di Cianni G, Bruno Giorda C, Lapice E, Manicardi E, Giandalia A, Lucisano G, Nicolucci A, Rocca A, Rossi MC, Spreafico E, Vespasiani G, Manicardi V. Role of telemedicine during COVID-19 pandemic in type 2 diabetes outpatients: The AMD annals initiative. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2022; 194:110158. [PMID: 36400169 PMCID: PMC9663380 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2022.110158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Telemedicine is advocated as a fundamental tool in modern clinical management. However, data on the effects of telemedicine vs face-to-face consultation on clinical outcomes in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are still uncertain. This paper describes the use of telemedicine during the 2020 COVID-19 emergency and compares volume activity and quality indicators of diabetes care between face-to-face vs telemedicine counseling in the large cohort of T2DM patients from the AMD Annals Initiative. METHODS Demographic and clinical characteristics, including laboratory parameters, rate of the screening of long-term complications, current therapies and the Q-score, a validated score that measures the overall quality of care, were compared between 364,898 patients attending face-to-face consultation and 46,424 on telemedicine, during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS Patients on telemedicine showed lower HbA1c levels (7.1 ± 1.2 % vs 7.3 ± 1.3 %, p < 0.0001), and they were less frequently treated with metformin, GLP1-RAs and SGLT2i and more frequently with DPP4i. The telemedicine group showed reduced monitoring of the various parameters considered as process indicators, especially, eye and foot examination. The proportion of patients with a good quality of care (Q score > 25) was higher among those receiving face-to-face consultation. Moreover, in the telemedicine group, all major clinical outcomes remained stable when further compared to those collected in the year 2019, when the same patients underwent a regular face-to-face consultation, suggesting that the care provided through telemedicine did not negatively affect the most important parameters. CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine provided an acceptable quality of diabetes care, comparable to that of patients attending face-to-face consultation, although a less frequent screening of complications seems to have occurred in subjects consulted by telemedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina T Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Andreozzi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Italy.
| | | | - Paolo Di Bartolo
- Ravenna Diabetes Center, Dept of Specialist Medicine, Romagna Local Health Authority, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Annalisa Giandalia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucisano
- CORESEARCH - Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, Pescara, Italy
| | - Antonio Nicolucci
- CORESEARCH - Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, Pescara, Italy
| | - Alberto Rocca
- Diabetology and Metabolic Diseases UOS, "G.Segalini", H.Bassini Cinisello Balsamo, ASST Nord Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Rossi
- CORESEARCH - Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, Pescara, Italy
| | - Emanuele Spreafico
- UOSD of Endocrine and Metabolic Disease and Nutrition, ASST Brianza, Pio XI Hospital, Desio, (MB), Italy
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9
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Pintaudi B, Scatena A, Piscitelli G, Frison V, Corrao S, Manicardi V, Graziano G, Chiara Rossi M, Gallo M, Mannino D, Nicolucci A, Di Bartolo P. Clinical profiles and quality of care of adults with type 1 diabetes according to their cardiovascular Risk: A Multicenter, Observational, retrospective study. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2021; 182:109131. [PMID: 34762997 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2021.109131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recently defined cardiovascular risk classes for subjects with diabetes. Aim of this study was to explore the distribution of subjects with type 1 diabetes (T1D) by cardiovascular risk groups according to the ESC classification and to describe the quality indicators of care. METHODS The study is based on data extracted from electronic medical records of patients treated at the 258 Italian diabetes centers participating in the AMD (Associazione Medici Diabetologi) Annals initiative. Patients with T1D were stratified by cardiovascular risk. Measures of intermediate outcomes, intensity/appropriateness of pharmacological treatment, and overall quality of care were evaluated. RESULTS Overall, 29.368 subjects with type 1 diabetes (64.7% at very high cardiovascular risk, 28.5% at high risk and 6.8% at moderate risk) were evaluated. A lack of use of drugs in case of high values and an inadequate control despite the antihypertensive and lipid-lowering treatment was recognized. The overall quality of care tended to be lower as the level of cardiovascular risk increased. CONCLUSION A large proportion of subjects with T1D is at high or very high risk. Antihypertensive and lipid-lowering treatment seem not adequately used. Several actions are necessary to improve the quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Vera Frison
- Internal Medicine and Diabetology Service, ULSS6, Cittadella, Italy
| | - Salvatore Corrao
- Department of Internal Medicine, ARNAS Civico Benfratelli Hospital, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Valeria Manicardi
- Diabetes Clinic, Azienda USL-IRCCS Di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giusi Graziano
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, Pescara, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Rossi
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, Pescara, Italy
| | - Marco Gallo
- AOU Città Della Salute E Della Scienza, Molinette Hospital, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Nicolucci
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, Pescara, Italy.
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Pintaudi B, Scatena A, Piscitelli G, Frison V, Corrao S, Manicardi V, Graziano G, Rossi MC, Gallo M, Mannino D, Di Bartolo P, Nicolucci A. Clinical profiles and quality of care of subjects with type 2 diabetes according to their cardiovascular risk: an observational, retrospective study. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2021; 20:59. [PMID: 33676499 PMCID: PMC7936493 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-021-01251-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recently defined cardiovascular risk classes for subjects with diabetes. Aim of this study was to explore the distribution of subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D) by cardiovascular risk groups according to the ESC classification and to describe the quality indicators of care, with particular regard to cardiovascular risk factors. Methods The study is based on data extracted from electronic medical records of patients treated at the 258 Italian diabetes centers participating in the AMD Annals initiative. Patients with T2D were stratified by cardiovascular risk. General descriptive indicators, measures of intermediate outcomes, intensity/appropriateness of pharmacological treatment for diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors, presence of other complications and overall quality of care were evaluated. Results Overall, 473,740 subjects with type 2 diabetes (78.5% at very high cardiovascular risk, 20.9% at high risk and 0.6% at moderate risk) were evaluated. Among people with T2D at very high risk: 26.4% had retinopathy, 39.5% had albuminuria, 18.7% had a previous major cardiovascular event, 39.0% had organ damage, 89.1% had three or more risk factors. The use of DPP4-i markedly increased as cardiovascular risk increased. The prescription of secretagogues also increased and that of GLP1-RAs tended to increase. The use of SGLT2-i was still limited, and only slightly higher in subjects with very high cardiovascular risk. The overall quality of care, as summarized by the Q score, tended to be lower as the level of cardiovascular risk increased. Conclusions A large proportion of subjects with T2D is at high or very high risk. Glucose-lowering drug therapies seem not to be adequately used with respect to their potential advantages in terms of cardiovascular risk reduction. Several actions are necessary to improve the quality of care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Vera Frison
- Internal Medicine and Diabetology Service, ULSS6, Cittadella, Italy
| | - Salvatore Corrao
- Department of Internal Medicine, ARNAS Civico Benfratelli Hospital, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Valeria Manicardi
- Diabetes Clinic, Azienda USL-IRCCS Di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giusi Graziano
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, Corso Umberto I, 65122, Pescara, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Rossi
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, Corso Umberto I, 65122, Pescara, Italy
| | - Marco Gallo
- AOU Città Della Salute E Della Scienza, Presidio Ospedaliero Molinette, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Nicolucci
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology, CORESEARCH, Corso Umberto I, 65122, Pescara, Italy.
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Giorda CB, Pisani F, De Micheli A, Ponzani P, Russo G, Guaita G, Zilich R, Musacchio N. Determinants of good metabolic control without weight gain in type 2 diabetes management: a machine learning analysis. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care 2020; 8:8/1/e001362. [PMID: 32928790 PMCID: PMC7490948 DOI: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2020-001362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate the factors (clinical, organizational or doctor-related) involved in a timely and effective achievement of metabolic control, with no weight gain, in type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Overall, 5.5 million of Hab1c and corresponding weight were studied in the Associazione Medici Diabetologi Annals database (2005-2017 data from 1.5 million patients of the Italian diabetes clinics network). Logic learning machine, a specific type of machine learning technique, was used to extract and rank the most relevant variables and to create the best model underlying the achievement of HbA1c<7 and no weight gain. RESULTS The combined goal was achieved in 37.5% of measurements. High HbA1c and fasting glucose values and slow drop of HbA1c have the greatest relevance and emerge as first, main, obstacles the doctor has to overcome. However, as a second line of negative factors, markers of insulin resistance, microvascular complications, years of observation and proxy of duration of disease appear to be important determinants. Quality of assistance provided by the clinic plays a positive role. Almost all the available oral agents are effective whereas insulin use shows positive impact on glucometabolism but negative on weight containment. We also tried to analyze the contribution of each component of the combined endpoint; we found that weight gain was less frequently the reason for not reaching the endpoint and that HbA1c and weight have different determinants. Of note, use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) and glifozins improves weight control. CONCLUSIONS Treating diabetes as early as possible with the best quality of care, before beta-cell deterioration and microvascular complications occurrence, make it easier to compensate patients. This message is a warning against clinical inertia. All medications play a role in goal achievements but use of GLP1-RAs and glifozins contributes to overweight prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Federico Pisani
- Freelance Artificial Intelligence Expert, Ivrea (TO), Ivrea, Italy
| | | | - Paola Ponzani
- Operative Unit of Diabetology, La Colletta Hospital, ASL 3, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Giacomo Guaita
- Diabetology, Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Service, ATS Sardegna-ASSL, Carbonia, Italy
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Ceriello A, Rossi MC, De Cosmo S, Lucisano G, Pontremoli R, Fioretto P, Giorda C, Pacilli A, Viazzi F, Russo G, Nicolucci A. Overall Quality of Care Predicts the Variability of Key Risk Factors for Complications in Type 2 Diabetes: An Observational, Longitudinal Retrospective Study. Diabetes Care 2019; 42:514-519. [PMID: 30765432 DOI: 10.2337/dc18-1471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An association between variability in clinical parameters (HbA1c, blood pressure, cholesterol, and uric acid) and risk of complications in type 2 diabetes has been reported. In this analysis, we investigated to what extent such variability is associated with overall quality of care. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The quality of care summary score (Q-score) represents a validated, overall quality of care indicator ranging between 0 and 40; the higher the score, the better the quality of care provided by the diabetes center. We identified patients with five or more measurements of clinical parameters after the assessment of the Q-score. Multiple linear regression analyses assessed the role of the Q-score in predicting the variability of the different parameters. RESULTS Overall, 273,888 patients were analyzed. The variability of all the parameters systematically increased with decreasing Q-score values. At multivariate linear regression analysis, compared with a Q-score >25, a score <15 was associated with a significantly larger variation in HbA1c, blood pressure, uric acid, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol and a lower variation in HDL cholesterol. The analysis of standardized β coefficients show that the Q-score has a larger impact on the variability of HbA1c (0.34; P < 0.0001), systolic blood pressure (0.21; P < 0.0001), total cholesterol (0.21; P < 0.0001), and LDL cholesterol (0.20; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The variability of risk factors for diabetic complications is associated with quality of care. Quality of care improvement initiatives should be targeted to increase the achievement of the recommended target while reducing such variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Ceriello
- Insititut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Rossi
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology (CORESEARCH), Pescara, Italy
| | - Salvatore De Cosmo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Scientific Institute "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza," San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucisano
- Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology (CORESEARCH), Pescara, Italy
| | - Roberto Pontremoli
- Department of Cardionephrology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Fioretto
- Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Carlo Giorda
- Diabetes and Metabolism Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, ASL Turin 5, Chieri, Turin, Italy
| | - Antonio Pacilli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Scientific Institute "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza," San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Francesca Viazzi
- Department of Cardionephrology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Li PI, Wang JN, Guo HR. Long-term quality-of-care score predicts incident chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2018; 33:2012-2019. [PMID: 29462347 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfx375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication of diabetes, and requires long-term medical care. However, besides the blood glucose level, no reliable method is currently available to link the quality of care and the development of CKD. We therefore developed a long-term quality-of-care score for predicting the occurrence of CKD in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, using Taiwan's Longitudinal Cohort of Diabetes Patients Database and the medical records in a medical center, we identified incident patients with type 2 diabetes during 1999-2003 and followed them until 2011. A quality-of-care score (from 0 to 8) was calculated according to process indicators (frequencies of HbA1c and lipid profile testing and urine, foot, and retinal examinations), intermediate outcome indicators (low-density lipoprotein, blood pressure, and HbA1c) and comorbidity of hypertension. We used Cox regression models to evaluate the association between the score and the incidence of CKD. Results Of the 4754 patients enrolled, 1407 developed CKD after a mean follow-up of 9.06 years. Compared with the risk of developing a CKD event in patients with scores ≤2, the risk was 69% lower in those with quality-of-care scores ≥5 (hazard ratio [HR] 0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.25-0.40) and 33% lower in those with scores between 3 and 4 (HR 0.67; 95% CI 0.59-0.77). Conclusions Good quality of care can reduce the risk of CKD in patients with type 2 diabetes. The score developed in this study had a significant association with the risk of CKD and thus can be applied to guide the care for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pi-I Li
- Department of Family Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Yongkang, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Nan Wang
- Department of Family Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Yongkang, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - How-Ran Guo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
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Li PI, Wang JN, Guo HR. A long-term quality-of-care score for predicting the occurrence of macrovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2018; 139:72-80. [PMID: 29481816 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2018.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to develop a long-term quality-of-care score to predict the occurrence of macrovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, on the basis of the hypothesis that good quality of care can reduce the risk of macrovascular complications. METHODS Using Taiwan's Longitudinal Cohort of Diabetes Patients Database and the medical records in a medical center, we identified the incident patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes during 1999-2003 and followed them until 2011. A summary score (from 0 to 8) was calculated according to process indicators (frequencies of HbA1c and lipid profile testing and urine, foot and retinal examinations), intermediate outcome indicators (low-density lipoprotein, blood pressure and HbA1c), and the co-morbidity of hypertension. We used Cox regression models to evaluate the association between the score and the incidence of macrovascular complications. RESULTS Of the 4275 patients enrolled, 1928 developed macrovascular complication events after a mean follow-up period of 8.2 years. Compared to the risk of developing a macrovascular disease event in patients with scores ≤1, the risk was 64% lower in those with quality-of-care scores ≥5 (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.36; 95% confidence interval: 0.28-0.45). CONCLUSIONS Good quality of care can reduce the risk of macrovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes. The score developed in this study had a significant association with the risk of macrovascular complications and thus can be applied to guiding the care for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pi-I Li
- Department of Family Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, 901 Chung-Hwa Road, Yongkang, Tainan 710, Taiwan; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Nan Wang
- Department of Family Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, 901 Chung-Hwa Road, Yongkang, Tainan 710, Taiwan
| | - How-Ran Guo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan; Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan.
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Disoteo O, Grimaldi F, Papini E, Attanasio R, Tonutti L, Pellegrini MA, Guglielmi R, Borretta G. State-of-the-Art Review on Diabetes Care in Italy. Ann Glob Health 2018; 81:803-13. [PMID: 27108147 DOI: 10.1016/j.aogh.2015.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes is a significant health problem in Italy as in other western countries. OBJECTIVE To review available epidemiological data and the legislative framework for diabetes care in Italy. METHODS Review of Italian Health Ministry's official documents and analysis of epidemiological data published by Italian Scientific Societies. FINDINGS Diabetes affects more than 5% of the Italian population. The expenditures for the care of people with diabetes are about €10 billion ($US 11 billion) a year and are increasing over time. Italian law regulates the clinical care of people with diabetes and creates a clinical framework involving medical organizations, prevention programs, personnel training, and legal protection. The National Health Program is structured in essential levels of assistance that can be defined differently in the various regions. In 2013, the "National Diabetes Plan," defining priority areas for intervention, was approved and represents the main regulatory tool for the management of diabetes within the Italian National Health Service. In Italy, the status of diabetes care is being monitored using the data from 2 permanent observatories: the ARNO Observatory Diabetes and the Associazione Medici Diabetologi Annals. CONCLUSIONS A comprehensive approach to diabetes is offered to all citizens, consonant with the constitutionally guaranteed right to health. However, this important effort translates into a relevant financial burden for the National Health Service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Disoteo
- Diabetology Department, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Franco Grimaldi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy.
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano Laziale (Rome), Italy
| | | | - Laura Tonutti
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Pellegrini
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Santa Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy
| | - Rinaldo Guglielmi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano Laziale (Rome), Italy
| | - Giorgio Borretta
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Santa Croce and Carle Hospital, Cuneo, Italy
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Vaona A, Del Zotti F, Girotto S, Marafetti C, Rigon G, Marcon A. Data collection of patients with diabetes in family medicine: a study in north-eastern Italy. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:565. [PMID: 28814303 PMCID: PMC5559811 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2508-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies on data collection and quality of care in Italian family medicine are lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the completeness of data collection of patients with diabetes in a large sample of family physicians in the province of Verona, Veneto region, a benchmark for the Italian National Health System. Methods We extracted the data on all the patients with diabetes from the electronic health records of 270 family physicians in 2006 and 2009. We reported the percentage of patients with data recorded for 12 indicators of performance derived from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence diabetes guidelines. Secondarily, we assessed quality of care using the Q-score (the lower the score, the greater the risk of cardiovascular events). Results Patients with diabetes were 18,507 in 2006 and 20,744 in 2009, and the percentage of patients registered as having diabetes was 4.9% and 5.4% of the total population, respectively (p < 0.001). Data collection improved for all the indicators between 2006 and 2009 but the performance was still low at the end of the study period: patients with no data recorded were 42% in 2006 and 32% in 2009, while patients with data recorded for ≥5 indicators were 9% in 2006 and 17% in 2009. The Q-score improved (mean ± SD, 20.7 ± 3.0 in 2006 vs 21.3 ± 3.6 in 2009, p < 0.001) but most patients were at increased risk of cardiovascular events in both years (Q-score ≤ 20). Conclusions We documented an improvement in data collection and quality of care for patients with diabetes during the study period. Nonetheless, data collection was still unsatisfactory in comparison with international benchmarks in 2009. Structural interventions in the organization of family medicine, which have not been implemented since the study period, should be prioritised in Italy. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-017-2508-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Vaona
- Federazione Italiana Medici di Medicina Generale (FIMMG), Centro Studi FIMMG Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Franco Del Zotti
- Federazione Italiana Medici di Medicina Generale (FIMMG), Centro Studi FIMMG Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sandro Girotto
- Federazione Italiana Medici di Medicina Generale (FIMMG), Centro Studi FIMMG Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Claudio Marafetti
- Federazione Italiana Medici di Medicina Generale (FIMMG), Centro Studi FIMMG Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulio Rigon
- Federazione Italiana Medici di Medicina Generale (FIMMG), Centro Studi FIMMG Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Marcon
- Unit of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, c/o Istituti Biologici II, Strada Le Grazie 8, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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Giorda C, Forlani G, Manti R, Mazzella N, De Cosmo S, Rossi MC, Nicolucci A, Russo G, Di Bartolo P, Ceriello A, Guida P. Occurrence over time and regression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2017; 33. [PMID: 28032449 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.2878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This analysis was aimed to assess the incidence, regression, and correlated factors of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in type 2 diabetes, which are poorly known. METHODS Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (defined as fatty liver index [FLI] score ≥ 60) in patients with type 2 diabetes, and related factors was investigated in a nationwide database containing information from the Italian network of diabetes clinics. A 10% variation of FLI was the cut-off considered in the analyses of a cohort of 5030 patients, which was separately conducted for those who developed, maintained, or recovered from FLI-assessed NAFLD (FLI-NAFLD) over a 3-year period. RESULTS At baseline, FLI-NAFLD was diagnosed in 61.3% of patients. Within the 3-year study period, FLI-NAFLD occurred in 313 patients and remitted in 410. The FLI score remained unchanged in 4307. Body-mass index (odds ratio, 1.45 95%; confidence interval, 1.35-1.55), abdominal obesity (2.11; 1.64-2.72), low HDL cholesterol levels (1.38; 1.02-1.87), and triglycerides (1.20; 1.12-1.28) all emerged as notable negative prognostic factors for the development or maintenance of FLI-NAFLD. The regression rate of FLI-NAFLD was higher among patients who managed to partially control these factors. Male sex and established organ damage, especially kidney function (1.64; 1.12-2.42), were independent risk predictors. Unlike other diabetes complications, FLI-NAFLD was more frequent among younger patients or those with a shorter duration of diabetes. CONCLUSIONS FLI-assessed NAFLD is a dynamic condition, with about 5% of diabetic patients entering or leaving the status every year. Younger male patients with insulin resistance or organ damage have a higher risk of presenting with FLI-NAFLD at baseline, developing FLI-NAFLD within 3 years, and a lower probability of regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giorda
- Diabetes and Metabolism Unit ASL Torino 5, Chieri, Italy
| | - Gabriele Forlani
- Unit of Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Dietetics, "Alma Mater Studiorum" University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberta Manti
- Diabetes and Metabolism Unit ASL Torino 5, Chieri, Italy
| | - Natalia Mazzella
- Unit of Metabolic Diseases and Clinical Dietetics, "Alma Mater Studiorum" University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Salvatore De Cosmo
- IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Unit of Internal Medicine, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Rossi
- Center for Outcomes Research and clinical Epidemiology (CORE), Pescara, Italy
| | - Antonio Nicolucci
- Center for Outcomes Research and clinical Epidemiology (CORE), Pescara, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Russo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Policlinico Universitario "G. Martino", Messina, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Ceriello
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August PiiSunyer (IDIBAPS) and Centro de Investigación Biomédicaen Red de Diabetes y Enfermeda des Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Barcelona, Spain
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Milano, Italy
| | - Piero Guida
- Statistical Consultant for AMD c/o Associazione Medici Diabetologi, Rome, Italy
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Gender-Disparities in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: More Than a Quality of Care Issue. A Cross-Sectional Observational Study from the AMD Annals Initiative. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162960. [PMID: 27695110 PMCID: PMC5047461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated gender-differences in quality of type 1 diabetes (T1DM) care. Starting from electronic medical records of 300 centers, 5 process indicators, 3 favorable and 6 unfavorable intermediate outcomes, 6 treatment intensity/appropriateness measures and an overall quality score were measured. The likelihood of women vs. men (reference class) to be monitored, to reach outcomes, or to be treated has been investigated through multilevel logistic regression analyses; results are expressed as Odd Ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs). The inter-center variability in the achievement of the unfavorable outcomes was also investigated. Overall, 28,802 subjects were analyzed (45.5% women). Women and men had similar age (44.5±16.0 vs. 45.0±17.0 years) and diabetes duration (18.3±13.0 vs. 18.8±13.0 years). No between-gender differences were found in process indicators. As for intermediate outcomes, women showed 33% higher likelihood of having HbA1c ≥8.0% (OR = 1.33; 95%CI: 1.25–1.43), 29% lower risk of blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg (OR = 0.71; 95%CI: 0.65–0.77) and 27% lower risk of micro/macroalbuminuria (OR = 0.73; 95%CI: 0.65–0.81) than men, while BMI, LDL-c and GFR did not significantly differ; treatment intensity/appropriateness was not systematically different between genders; overall quality score was similar in men and women. Consistently across centers a larger proportion of women than men had HbA1c ≥8.0%, while a smaller proportion had BP ≥140/90 mmHg. No gender-disparities were found in process measures and improvements are required in both genders. The systematic worse metabolic control in women and worse blood pressure in men suggest that pathophysiologic differences rather than the care provided might explain these differences.
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Thayer S, Chow W, Korrer S, Aguilar R. Real-world evaluation of glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with canagliflozin versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors. Curr Med Res Opin 2016; 32:1087-96. [PMID: 26938635 DOI: 10.1185/03007995.2016.1159954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with canagliflozin (CANA) vs. dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Methods Using integrated claims and lab data from a US health plan of commercial and Medicare Advantage enrollees, this matched-control cohort study assessed adult T2DM patients receiving treatment with CANA or DPP-4 inhibitors (1 April 2013-31 December 2013). Cohorts were chosen hierarchically; the first pharmacy claim for CANA was identified as the index date; then the first pharmacy claim for a DPP-4 inhibitor was identified and index date set. Eligible patients had 6 months of continuous health plan enrollment before the index date (baseline) and 9 months after (follow-up) and no evidence of index drug in baseline. Patients were matched 1:1 using propensity score matching. Changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and percentages of patients with HbA1c <8% and <7% during the follow-up were evaluated. Results The matched CANA and DPP-4 inhibitor cohorts (53.2% treated with sitagliptin) included 2766 patients each (mean age: 55.7 years). Among patients with baseline and follow-up HbA1c results, mean baseline HbA1c values were similar, 8.62% and 8.57% (p = 0.615) for the CANA (n = 729) and DPP-4 inhibitor (n = 710) cohorts, respectively. Change in HbA1c was greater among patients in the CANA cohort than for those in the DPP-4 inhibitor cohort (-0.92% vs. -0.63%, p < 0.001), and also among the subset of patients with baseline HbA1c ≥7% (-1.07% [n = 624] vs. -0.79% [n = 603], p = 0.004). During follow-up, greater percentages of the CANA cohort relative to the DPP-4 inhibitor cohort achieved HbA1c of <8% (66.0% vs. 58.6%, p = 0.004) and <7% (35.4% vs. 29.9%, p = 0.022). Limitations This study was observational and residual confounding remains a possibility. Conclusions In this real-world study of patients with T2DM, CANA use was associated with greater HbA1c reduction and higher percentages of patients attaining HbA1c goals than those treated with DPP-4 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Wing Chow
- b Janssen Scientific Affairs LLC , Raritan , NJ , USA
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Han BH, Blaum CS, Ferris RE, Min LC, Lee PG. Older Adults Reporting More Diabetes Mellitus Care Have Greater 9-Year Survival. J Am Geriatr Soc 2015; 63:2455-2462. [PMID: 26659115 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.13839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether receiving more recommended diabetes mellitus (DM) care processes (tests and screenings) would translate into better 9-year survival for middle-aged and older adults. DESIGN Longitudinal mortality analysis using the Health and Retirement Study Diabetes Mailout Survey. SETTING Health and Retirement Study (HRS). PARTICIPANTS Individuals aged 51 and older (n = 1,879; mean age 68.8 ± 8.7, 26.5% aged ≥75) with self-reported DM who completed the Diabetes Mailout Survey and the core 2002 HRS survey. MEASUREMENTS A composite measure of five self-reported diabetes mellitus care process measures were dichotomized as greater (3-5 processes) versus fewer (0-2 processes) care processes provided. Cox proportional hazards models were used to test relationships between reported measures and mortality, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, function, comorbidities, geriatric conditions, and insulin use. RESULTS Prevalence of self-reported care processes was 80.1% for glycosylated hemoglobin test, 75.9% for urine test, 67.5% for eye examination, 67.7% for aspirin counseling, and 48.2% for diabetes education. In 9 years, 32.1% respondents died. Greater care correlated with 24% lower risk of dying (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.76, 95% confidence interval = 0.64-0.91) at 9-year follow up. When respondents were age-stratified (≥75 vs <75) longer survival was statistically significant only in the older age group. CONCLUSION Although it is not possible to account for differences in adherence to care that may also affect survival, this study demonstrates that monitoring of and counseling about types of DM care processes are associated with long-term survival benefit even in individuals aged 75 and older with DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin H Han
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Caroline S Blaum
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Rosie E Ferris
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Lillian C Min
- Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Pearl G Lee
- Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Seghieri C, Policardo L, Francesconi P, Seghieri G. Gender differences in the relationship between diabetes process of care indicators and cardiovascular outcomes. Eur J Public Health 2015; 26:219-24. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckv159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Rossi MC, Candido R, Ceriello A, Cimino A, Di Bartolo P, Giorda C, Esposito K, Lucisano G, Maggini M, Mannucci E, Meloncelli I, Nicolucci A, Pellegrini F, Scardapane M, Vespasiani G. Trends over 8 years in quality of diabetes care: results of the AMD Annals continuous quality improvement initiative. Acta Diabetol 2015; 52:557-71. [PMID: 25528003 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-014-0688-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Quality of care monitoring is a key strategy for health policy. In Italy, the AMD Annals continuous monitoring and quality improvement initiative has been in place since 2006. Results after 8 years are now available. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Quality of diabetes care indicators during the years 2004-2011 were extracted from electronic medical records of 300 diabetes clinics. From 200,000 to 500,000 patients with type 2 diabetes were analyzed per year. Six process indicators, eight intermediate outcome indicators, seven indicators of treatment intensity/appropriateness, and a quality of care summary score (Q score) were evaluated. Previous studies documented that the risk of developing a new cardiovascular event was 80 % higher in patients with a Q score <15 and 20 % higher in those with a score between 15 and 25, as compared to those with a score >25. RESULTS The proportion of patients with HbA1c ≤7 %, LDL cholesterol <100 mg/dl, and blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg increased by 4.8, 21.9, and 10.0 %, respectively. Process and treatment intensity/appropriateness indicators consistently improved. The proportion of patients with a Q score <15 decreased from 13.5 to 6.5 %, while those with a Q score >25 increased from 22.9 to 38.5 %. CONCLUSIONS AMD Annals document the progress in quality of diabetes care. Longitudinal improvements in Q score can translate into less cardiovascular events, with evident clinical and economic implications. AMD Annals represent a physician-led effort not requiring allocation of extra-economic resources, which is easy to implement and deeply rooted in routine clinical practice. They are a potential case model for other healthcare systems.
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Casillas A, Iglesias K, Flatz A, Burnand B, Peytremann-Bridevaux I. No consistent association between processes-of-care and health-related quality of life among patients with diabetes: a missing link? BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care 2015; 3:e000042. [PMID: 25621176 PMCID: PMC4298028 DOI: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2014-000042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Revised: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is considered a representative outcome in the evaluation of chronic disease management initiatives emphasizing patient-centered care. We evaluated the association between receipt of processes-of-care (PoC) for diabetes and HRQoL. METHODS This cross-sectional study used self-reported data from non-institutionalized adults with diabetes in a Swiss canton. Outcomes were the physical/mental composites of the short form health survey 12 (SF-12) physical composite score, mental composite score (PCS, MCS) and the Audit of Diabetes-Dependent Quality of Life (ADDQoL). Main exposure variables were receipt of six PoC for diabetes in the past 12 months, and the Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care (PACIC) score. We performed linear regressions to examine the association between PoC, PACIC and the three composites of HRQoL. RESULTS Mean age of the 519 patients was 64.5 years (SD 11.3); 60% were male, 87% reported type 2 or undetermined diabetes and 48% had diabetes for over 10 years. Mean HRQoL scores were SF-12 PCS: 43.4 (SD 10.5), SF-12 MCS: 47.0 (SD 11.2) and ADDQoL: -1.6 (SD 1.6). In adjusted models including all six PoC simultaneously, receipt of influenza vaccine was associated with lower ADDQoL (β=-0.4, p≤0.01) and foot examination was negatively associated with SF-12 PCS (β=-1.8, p≤0.05). There was no association or trend towards a negative association when these PoC were reported as combined measures. PACIC score was associated only with the SF-12 MCS (β=1.6, p≤0.05). CONCLUSIONS PoC for diabetes did not show a consistent association with HRQoL in a cross-sectional analysis. This may represent an effect lag time between time of process received and health-related quality of life. Further research is needed to study this complex phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Casillas
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (IUMSP), Lausanne University Hospital , Lausanne, Vaud , Switzerland
| | - Katia Iglesias
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (IUMSP), Lausanne University Hospital , Lausanne, Vaud , Switzerland
| | - Aline Flatz
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (IUMSP), Lausanne University Hospital , Lausanne, Vaud , Switzerland
| | - Bernard Burnand
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (IUMSP), Lausanne University Hospital , Lausanne, Vaud , Switzerland
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Nicolucci A, Rossi MC, Pellegrini F, Lucisano G, Pintaudi B, Gentile S, Marra G, Skovlund SE, Vespasiani G. Benchmarking network for clinical and humanistic outcomes in diabetes (BENCH-D) study: protocol, tools, and population. SPRINGERPLUS 2014; 3:83. [PMID: 24600541 PMCID: PMC3935032 DOI: 10.1186/2193-1801-3-83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background In the context of the DAWN-2 initiatives, the BENCH-D Study aims to test a model of regional benchmarking to improve not only the quality of diabetes care, but also patient-centred outcomes. Methods/Design As part of the AMD-Annals quality improvement program, 32 diabetes clinics in 4 Italian regions extracted clinical data from electronic databases for measuring process and outcome quality indicators. A random sample of patients with type 2 diabetes filled in a questionnaire including validated instruments to assess patient-centred indicators: SF-12 Health Survey, WHO-5 Well-Being Index, Diabetes Empowerment Scale, Problem Areas in Diabetes, Health Care Climate Questionnaire, Patients Assessment of Chronic Illness Care, Barriers to Medications, Patient Support, Diabetes Self-care Activities, and Global Satisfaction for Diabetes Treatment. Data were discussed with participants in regional meetings. Main problems, obstacles and solutions were identified through a standardized process, and a regional mandate was produced to drive the priority actions. Overall, clinical indicators on 78,854 patients have been measured; additionally, 2,390 patients filled-in the questionnaire. The regional mandates were officially launched in March 2012. Clinical and patient-centred indicators will be evaluated again after 18 months. A final assessment of clinical indicators will take place after 30 months. Discussion In the context of the BENCH-D study, a set of instruments has been validated to measure patient well-being and satisfaction with the care. In the four regional meetings, different priorities were identified, reflecting different organizational resources of the different areas. In all the regions, a major challenge was represented by the need of skills and instruments to address psychosocial issues of people with diabetes. The BENCH-D study allows a field testing of benchmarking activities focused on clinical and patient-centred indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Nicolucci
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Maria C Rossi
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Fabio Pellegrini
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lucisano
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Basilio Pintaudi
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Sandro Gentile
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Giampiero Marra
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Soren E Skovlund
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
| | - Giacomo Vespasiani
- Diabetes Unit, Madonna del Soccorso Hospital, San Benedetto del Tronto, AP Italy
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Rossi MC, Cristofaro MR, Gentile S, Lucisano G, Manicardi V, Mulas MF, Napoli A, Nicolucci A, Pellegrini F, Suraci C, Giorda C. Sex disparities in the quality of diabetes care: biological and cultural factors may play a different role for different outcomes: a cross-sectional observational study from the AMD Annals initiative. Diabetes Care 2013; 36:3162-8. [PMID: 23835692 PMCID: PMC3781503 DOI: 10.2337/dc13-0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the quality of type 2 diabetes care according to sex. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Clinical data collected during the year 2009 were extracted from electronic medical records; quality-of-care indicators were evaluated. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was applied to estimate the likelihood of women versus men to be monitored for selected parameters, to reach clinical outcomes, and to be treated with specific classes of drugs. The intercenter variability in the proportion of men and women achieving the targets was also investigated. RESULTS Overall, 415,294 patients from 236 diabetes outpatient centers were evaluated, of whom 188,125 (45.3%) were women and 227,169 (54.7%) were men. Women were 14% more likely than men to have HbA1c>9.0% in spite of insulin treatment (odds ratio 1.14 [95% CI 1.10-1.17]), 42% more likely to have LDL cholesterol (LDL-C)≥130 mg/dL (1.42 [1.38-1.46]) in spite of lipid-lowering treatment, and 50% more likely to have BMI≥30 kg/m2 (1.50 [1.50-1.54]). Women were less likely to be monitored for foot and eye complications. In 99% of centers, the percentage of men reaching the LDL-C target was higher than in women, the proportion of patients reaching the HbA1c target was in favor of men in 80% of the centers, and no differences emerged for blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS Women show a poorer quality of diabetes care than men. The attainment of the LDL-C target seems to be mainly related to pathophysiological factors, whereas patient and physician attitudes can play an important role in other process measures and outcomes.
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Giorda CB. The role of the care model in modifying prognosis in diabetes. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2013; 23:11-16. [PMID: 22906566 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2012.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 06/05/2012] [Accepted: 07/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Organizational factors in diabetes care can influence long- and medium-term outcomes, affecting the prognosis to the same extent as new therapies. A growing body of evidence supports the hypothesis that diabetes team consultation can favorably impact on hospital utilization, the costliest item in diabetes management, as well as on hospitalization rates, inpatient hospital length of stay, and re-admission rates. Moreover, the model of diabetes care has been reported to influence guidelines adherence, an additional factor linked to the variability in the quality of diabetes care. The strongest predictor and effect modifier of the quality of diabetes care is specialist referral. Compared to patients seen in primary care or other settings, those visiting a diabetes center are more likely to be monitored according to guidelines, regardless of the severity-of-disease effect, and to receive structured education, as well as more aggressive treatment when needed. Finally, at least eight published studies suggest that when continuity of care is shared with diabetes clinics, all-cause mortality and major cardiovascular events are both reduced. The sharing of care pathways between primary care providers and diabetes teams is likely to be the best and most affordable solution in the complex management of this chronic condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Giorda
- Metabolism and Diabetes Unit, ASL TORINO 5, Chieri (TO), Italy.
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Fano V, Pezzotti P, Gnavi R, Bontempi K, Miceli M, Pagnozzi E, Giarrizzo ML, Fortino A. The role of socio-economic factors on prevalence and health outcomes of persons with diabetes in Rome, Italy. Eur J Public Health 2012; 23:991-7. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cks168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
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De Berardis G, D'Ettorre A, Graziano G, Lucisano G, Pellegrini F, Cammarota S, Citarella A, Germinario CA, Lepore V, Menditto E, Nicolosi A, Vitullo F, Nicolucci A. The burden of hospitalization related to diabetes mellitus: a population-based study. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2012; 22:605-612. [PMID: 21333508 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2010.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2010] [Revised: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 10/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS To estimate the impact of diabetes and its complications, overall and in different age classes, on the likelihood of hospital admission for specific causes. METHODS AND RESULTS We carried out a record-linkage analysis of administrative registers including data on 8,940,420 citizens in 21 Local Health Authorities in Italy. Individuals with pharmacologically treated diabetes (≥2 prescriptions of antidiabetic agents during the year 2008) were paired in a 1:1 proportion with those who did not receive such drugs (controls) based on propensity-score matching. Odds Ratios (ORs) of hospitalization for macro and microvascular conditions in individuals with diabetes as compared to controls were estimated. The system identified 498,825 individuals with diabetes pharmacologically treated (prevalence of 5.6%). Prevalence of diabetes in people aged <14 years, 14-39 years, 40-65 years, and ≥65 years was 0.1%, 0.6%, 6.4%, and 18.2%, respectively. Overall, 23.9% of subjects with diabetes and 11.5% of controls had had at least a hospital admission during 12 months for the causes considered. Diabetes increased the likelihood of hospitalization by two to six times for the different causes examined. In absolute terms, diabetes was responsible for an excess of over 12,000 hospital admissions per 100,000 individuals/year. CONCLUSION Despite the availability of effective treatments to prevent or delay major complications, diabetes still places an enormous burden on both patients and the health care system. Given the continuous rise in diabetes prevalence both in middle-aged and elderly individuals, we can expect an additional, hardly sustainable increase in the demand for health care in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- G De Berardis
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Epidemiology, Consorzio Mario Negri Sud, Via Nazionale 8/a, S. Maria Imbaro, Italy
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Giorda C, Picariello R, Nada E, Tartaglino B, Marafetti L, Costa G, Gnavi R. The impact of adherence to screening guidelines and of diabetes clinics referral on morbidity and mortality in diabetes. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33839. [PMID: 22509263 PMCID: PMC3317933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2011] [Accepted: 02/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the heightened awareness of diabetes as a major health problem, evidence on the impact of assistance and organizational factors, as well as of adherence to recommended care guidelines, on morbidity and mortality in diabetes is scanty. We identified diabetic residents in Torino, Italy, as of 1st January 2002, using multiple independent data sources. We collected data on several laboratory tests and specialist medical examinations to compare primary versus specialty care management of diabetes and the fulfillment of a quality-of-care indicator based on existing screening guidelines (GCI). Then, we performed regression analyses to identify associations of these factors with mortality and cardiovascular morbidity over a 4 year-follow-up. Patients with the lowest degree of quality of care (i.e. only cared for by primary care and with no fulfillment of GCI) had worse RRs for all-cause (1.72 [95% CI 1.57-1.89]), cardiovascular (1.74 [95% CI 1.50-2.01]) and cancer (1.35 [95% CI 1.14-1.61]) mortality, compared with those with the highest quality of care. They also showed increased RRs for incidence of major cardiovascular events up to 2.03 (95% CI 1.26-3.28) for lower extremity amputations. Receiving specialist care itself increased survival, but was far more effective when combined with the fulfillment of GCI. Throughout the whole set of analysis, implementation of guidelines emerged as a strong modifier of prognosis. We conclude that management of diabetic patients with a pathway based on both primary and specialist care is associated with a favorable impact on all-cause mortality and CV incidence, provided that guidelines are implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giorda
- Metabolism and Diabetes Unit, ASL TO5, Regione Piemonte, Chieri, Italy.
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Sidorenkov G, Haaijer-Ruskamp FM, de Zeeuw D, Denig P. A longitudinal study examining adherence to guidelines in diabetes care according to different definitions of adequacy and timeliness. PLoS One 2011; 6:e24278. [PMID: 21931669 PMCID: PMC3169586 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0024278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 08/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Performance indicators assessing quality of diabetes care often look at single processes, e.g. whether an HbA1c test was conducted. Adequate care, however, consists of consecutive processes which should be taken in time (clinical pathways). We assessed quality of diabetes care by looking at single processes versus clinical pathways. In addition, we evaluated the impact of time period definitions on this quality assessment. METHODOLOGY We conducted a cohort study in 2007-2008 using the GIANTT (Groningen Initiative to Analyse type 2 diabetes Treatment) database. Proportions of patients adequately managed for HbA1c, systolic blood pressure (SBP), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), and albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) were calculated for the pathway of (1) risk factor level testing, (2) treatment intensification when indicated, (3) response to treatment evaluation. Strict and wide time periods for each step were defined. Proportions of patients adequately managed regarding the overall pathway and single steps, using strict or wide time periods were compared using odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals. FINDINGS Of 11,176 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, 9439 with complete follow-up were included. The majority received annual examination of HbA1c (86%) and SBP (86%), whereas this was 67% for LDL-C and 49% for ACR. Adequate management regarding the three-step pathway was observed in 73%, 53%, 46%, 41% of patients for HbA1c, SBP, LDL-C, and ACR respectively. Quality scores reduced significantly due to the second step (OR 0.43, 0.18, 0.44, 0.74), but were not much further reduced by the third step. Timely treatment evaluation occurred in 88% for HbA1c, 87% for SBP, 83% for LDL-C, and 76% for ACR. The overall score was not significantly changed by using strict time windows. CONCLUSION Quality estimates of glycemic, blood pressure and cholesterol management are substantially reduced when looking at clinical pathways as compared to estimates based on commonly used simple process measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigory Sidorenkov
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Research Institute SHARE of the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Flora M. Haaijer-Ruskamp
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Research Institute SHARE of the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dick de Zeeuw
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Petra Denig
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Research Institute SHARE of the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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Sidorenkov G, Haaijer-Ruskamp FM, de Zeeuw D, Bilo H, Denig P. Review: relation between quality-of-care indicators for diabetes and patient outcomes: a systematic literature review. Med Care Res Rev 2011; 68:263-89. [PMID: 21536606 DOI: 10.1177/1077558710394200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The authors conducted a systematic literature review to assess whether quality indicators for diabetes care are related to patient outcomes. Twenty-four studies were included that formally tested this relationship. Quality indicators focusing on structure or processes of care were included. Descriptive analyses were conducted on the associations found, differentiating for study quality and level of analysis. Structure indicators were mostly tested in studies with weak designs, showing no associations with surrogate outcomes or mixed results. Process indicators focusing on intensification of drug treatment were significantly associated with better surrogate outcomes in three high-quality studies. Process indicators measuring numbers of tests or visits conducted showed mostly negative results in four high-quality studies on surrogate and hard outcomes. Studies performed on different levels of analysis and studies of lower quality gave similar results. For many widely used quality indicators, there is insufficient evidence that they are predictive of better patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigory Sidorenkov
- University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
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Rossi MCE, Lucisano G, Comaschi M, Coscelli C, Cucinotta D, Di Blasi P, Bader G, Pellegrini F, Valentini U, Vespasiani G, Nicolucci A. Quality of diabetes care predicts the development of cardiovascular events: results of the AMD-QUASAR study. Diabetes Care 2011; 34:347-52. [PMID: 21270192 PMCID: PMC3024347 DOI: 10.2337/dc10-1709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The QUASAR (Quality Assessment Score and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Italian Diabetes Patients) study aimed to assess whether a quality-of-care summary score predicted the development of cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with type 2 diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In 67 diabetes clinics, data on randomly selected patients were extracted from electronic medical records. The score was calculated using process and outcome indicators based on monitoring, targets, and treatment of A1C, blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and microalbuminuria. The score ranged from 0 to 40. RESULTS Overall, 5,181 patients were analyzed; 477 (9.2%) patients developed a CV event after a median follow-up of 28 months. The incidence rate (per 1,000 person-years) of CV events was 62.4 in patients with a score of <15, 41.0 in those with a score between 20 and 25 and 36.7 in those with a score of >25. Multilevel analysis, adjusted for clustering and case-mix, showed that the risk to develop a new CV event was 84% higher in patients with a score of <15 (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-2.62) and 17% higher in those with a score between 15 and 25 (IRR = 1.17; 95% CI 0.93-1.49) compared with those with a score of >25. Mean quality score varied across centers from 16.5 ± 7.5 to 29.1 ± 6.3. When the score was tested as the dependent variable, it emerged that 18% of the variance in the score could be attributed to setting characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Our study documented a close relationship between quality of diabetes care and long-term outcomes. A simple score can be used to monitor quality of care and compare the performance of different centers/physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C E Rossi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Epidemiology, Consorzio Mario Negri Sud, Santa Maria Imbaro, Chieti, Italy.
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Nicolucci A, Rossi MC, Arcangeli A, Cimino A, de Bigontina G, Fava D, Gentile S, Giorda C, Meloncelli I, Pellegrini F, Valentini U, Vespasiani G. Four-year impact of a continuous quality improvement effort implemented by a network of diabetes outpatient clinics: the AMD-Annals initiative. Diabet Med 2010; 27:1041-8. [PMID: 20722678 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2010.03055.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS We evaluated the impact of a continuous quality improvement effort implemented by a network of Italian diabetes clinics operating in the national healthcare system. METHODS This was a controlled before-and-after study involving 95 centres, of which 67 joined the initiative since 2004 (group A) and 18 were first involved in 2007 (group B, control). All centres used electronic medical record systems. Information on quality indicators was extracted for the period 2004-2007. Data were centrally analysed anonymously and results were published annually. Each centre's performance was ranked against the 'best performers'. We compared quality indicators between the two groups of centres over 4 years. RESULTS Over 100 000 Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients were evaluated annually. The proportion of patients with glycated haemoglobin levels < 7% increased by 6% in group A (2007-2004 difference) and by 1.3% in group B. The proportion of patients with low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol < 100 mg/dl improved by over 10% in both groups. The rate of patients with blood pressure values < or = 130/85 mmHg increased in group A (+6.4%), but not in group B (-1.4%). The use of insulin increased in group A only (+5.2%), while the use of statins increased by over 20% in both groups. CONCLUSIONS A physician-led quality improvement effort, based on the systematic evaluation of routine data, is effective in improving the performance of a large number of diabetes clinics. The small percentage increase in the number of patients at target, if applied to large numbers of patients, would translate into a significant impact on public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nicolucci
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Epidemiology, Consorzio Mario Negri Sud, S. Maria Imbaro, Italy.
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Monitoring modifiable cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes care in general practice: the use of an aggregated z-score. Med Care 2010; 48:589-95. [PMID: 20562687 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0b013e3181d5693a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because many patients in usual care reach the diabetes treatment goals, it may be more efficacious to focus quality improvement efforts on those general practice populations requiring additional support. We therefore developed a tool based on a composite end point considering blood pressure, lipids, and glycaemia. METHODS We created an aggregated z(A)-score, calculated as the average of 3 z-scores testing whether the mean practice values of hemoglobin A1c, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure are significantly higher than the corresponding ADA-target (respectively 7%, 100 mg/dL, and 130 mm Hg). This score was used with 100 general practitioners who participated in a Quality Improvement Program. We defined the cut-off value (COV) to determine "Practices Requiring Support" (z(A) <COV) using a receiver's operating characteristics curve with the mean practice CHD risk as gold standard. To further test the z-score validity, we calculated the correlation coefficient between the z-score and the mean practice CHD risk and the improvement in the z-score after the Quality Improvement Program. RESULTS The COV was -1.22 and was valid to discriminate between practices at higher risk from practices at lower CHD risk (24% +/- 4% vs. 19% +/- 4%). The correlation coefficient was -0.515 (P = 0.001). The average z-score increased from -1.21 +/- 0.97 at baseline to 0.49 +/- 1.01 after the intervention (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION This scoring system is useful to picture practice populations with diabetes who are at high cardiovascular risk because of modifiable risk factors. Although the unadjusted z-score cannot be used to compare physicians, this technique can be used to evaluate improvement efforts over time.
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Association of physicians' accuracy in recording with quality of care in cardiovascular medicine. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 16:722-8. [PMID: 19770664 DOI: 10.1097/hjr.0b013e3283317c3f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physicians' adherence to cardiovascular (CV) guidelines has been found to be poor. In this regard, accuracy in keeping medical records could play an important role. This study was devised to describe which data are present in medical records from a large sample of physicians and to investigate the association and the link between completeness in recording and clinical appropriateness. METHODS The data extracted from medical records of 1078 doctors (general practitioners, cardiologists, and diabetologists) were analyzed, with a focus on CV prevention. The percentage of recorded data of several CV clinical variables was calculated. A multivariate analysis was performed to investigate the association between doctors' and patients' characteristics and different patterns in recording. Finally, the completeness in recording was calculated with a score and plotted against three indicators of appropriateness. RESULTS The only risk factor that achieved a good standard of registration was blood pressure (89%). Low-density lipoprotein and waist circumference were largely under-recorded, whereas lifestyle data collection was almost negligible. Age, specialization, and use of electronic records increase the accuracy in recording. When one CV risk factor was predominant, the probability of having other risk factors recorded was reduced. A significant increase in the proportion of patients treated according to guidelines was found in doctors who were more accurate in recording. CONCLUSION A link exists between accuracy in recording with both quality of care and adherence to guidelines. Specific training of all doctors in this field should be considered.
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Rossi MCE, Nicolucci A, Arcangeli A, Cimino A, De Bigontina G, Giorda C, Meloncelli I, Pellegrini F, Valentini U, Vespasiani G. Baseline quality-of-care data from a quality-improvement program implemented by a network of diabetes outpatient clinics. Diabetes Care 2008; 31:2166-8. [PMID: 18694979 PMCID: PMC2571068 DOI: 10.2337/dc08-0469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe patterns of diabetes care and implement benchmarking activities at the national level. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A total of 86 clinics participated, all using electronic medical records. Quality indicators were identified, and software was developed, enabling the extraction of the information needed for quality-of-care profiling. RESULTS Overall, 114,249 patients with type 2 diabetes were seen during 2004. A1C was measured at least once in 88.0% of the patients, lipid profile in 64.6%, blood pressure in 77.2%, and microalbuminuria in 48.1%. Overall, 43.1% of individuals had A1C <or=7.0%, 36.6% had blood pressure <or=130/85 mmHg, and 29.8% had LDL cholesterol <100 mg/dl. Only 5.5% of the patients had achieved all the favorable outcomes. Wide between-center variation was documented for all indicators. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first step of a nationwide quality-improvement effort and documents the possibility of obtaining standardized information to be used for diabetes care profiling and benchmarking activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C E Rossi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Epidemiology, Consorzio Mario Negri Sud, S Maria Imbaro CH, Italy.
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Overall quality of diabetes care in a defined geographic region: different sides of the same story. Br J Gen Pract 2008; 58:339-45. [PMID: 18482488 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp08x280209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In diabetes care, knowledge about what is achievable in primary and secondary care is important. There is a need for an objective method to assess the quality of care in different settings. A quality-of-care summary score has been developed based on process and outcome measures. An adapted version of this score was used to evaluate diabetes management in different settings. AIM To evaluate the quality of diabetes management in primary and secondary care in a defined geographic region in the Netherlands, using a quality score. DESIGN OF STUDY Cross-sectional study. SETTING Thirty general practices in the Netherlands. METHOD A study of 2042 patients with type 2 diabetes (1640 primary care and 402 secondary care) was conducted. Quality of diabetes management was assessed by a score of process and outcome indicators (range 0-40). Clustering at practice level and differences in patient characteristics (case mix) were taken into account. RESULTS At the outpatient clinic, patients were younger (mean age 64.1 years, standard deviation (SD)=12.5 years, versus mean age 67.1 years, SD=11.7, P<0.001), had more diabetes-related complications (macrovascular: 39.7% versus 24.3%, P<0.001; and microvascular: 25.9% versus 7.3%, P<0.001), and lower quality-of-life scores (EuroQol-5D: mean=0.60, SD=0.29, versus mean=0.80, SD=0.21, P<0.001). After adjusting for case mix and clustering, there was a weak association between the setting of treatment and haemoglobin A1c (primary care: mean 7.1%, SD=1.1, versus secondary care: mean 7.6%, SD=1.2, P<0.016), and between setting and systolic blood pressure (primary: mean 145.7 mmHg, SD=19.2, versus secondary care: 147.77 mmHg, SD 21.0, P<0.035). Quality-of-care summary scores in primary and secondary care differed significantly, with a higher score in primary care (mean 19.6, SD=8.5 versus, mean 18.1, SD=8.7, P<0.01). However, after adjusting for case mix and clustering, this difference lost significance. CONCLUSION GPs and internists are treating different categories of patients with type 2 diabetes. However, overall quality of diabetes management in primary and secondary care is equal. There is much room for improvement. Future guidelines may differentiate between different categories of patients.
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Voorham J, Denig P. Computerized extraction of information on the quality of diabetes care from free text in electronic patient records of general practitioners. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2007; 14:349-54. [PMID: 17329733 PMCID: PMC2244890 DOI: 10.1197/jamia.m2128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study evaluated a computerized method for extracting numeric clinical measurements related to diabetes care from free text in electronic patient records (EPR) of general practitioners. DESIGN AND MEASUREMENTS Accuracy of this number-oriented approach was compared to manual chart abstraction. Audits measured performance in clinical practice for two commonly used electronic record systems. RESULTS Numeric measurements embedded within free text of the EPRs constituted 80% of relevant measurements. For 11 of 13 clinical measurements, the study extraction method was 94%-100% sensitive with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 85%-100%. Post-processing increased sensitivity several points and improved PPV to 100%. Application in clinical practice involved processing times averaging 7.8 minutes per 100 patients to extract all relevant data. CONCLUSION The study method converted numeric clinical information to structured data with high accuracy, and enabled research and quality of care assessments for practices lacking structured data entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaco Voorham
- Sector F, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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