Michigan Diabetes Outreach Networks: a public health approach to strengthening diabetes care.

This study describes a statewide public health approach to strengthen diabetes care; evaluates diabetes-related processes of care for individuals enrolled in the Michigan Diabetes Outreach Network (MDON) program; and, examines MDON in the context of priorities for diabetes care and public health policy. Organizational information was obtained through semi-structured interviews. Program outcomes are examined using data from client intake and follow-up assessment forms. We report percentages and mean values overall and across networks. Logistic regression is used to identify factors associated with clients receiving recommended diabetes care. Within two years, five of the networks recruited 125 providers and collected information on over 8,000 individuals with diabetes. The percentage of enrollees with a glycosylated hemoglobin measure, eye exam, and dietician visit is greater at follow-up than at intake and an intake "referral" is strongly associated with clients being trieated for high blood pressure at follow-up. The MDON model is a promising public health approach for improving diabetes care but it is necessary to identify program elements that are most effective.