The diabetes healthy outcomes program: results of free health care for uninsured at a federally qualified community health center.

BACKGROUND

Uninsured patients with diabetes are at increased risk for poor outcomes and often have limited access to health and prescription services necessary to manage diabetes. Hamilton Health Center, a federally qualified community health center, with support from the Highmark Foundation, implemented a Diabetes Healthy Outcomes Program (DHOP) for uninsured patients.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of DHOP that is designed to provide health care and supportive services for uninsured diabetic patients at a federally qualified community health center.

METHODS

Mixed quantitative and qualitative analyses of participant outcomes and satisfaction were used to assess program effectiveness.

RESULTS

A total of 189 participants enrolled in DHOP over 2 years. Thirty-four (18%) participants had adequate glycemic control with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ≤ 7%. Overall, 105 participants received prescription drugs, 101 participants received eye care services, 23 participants received dental services, 45 received podiatry services, 37 received nutrition services, and 28 patients engaged in an exercise program. More participants (38%, 34) had controlled diabetes mellitus at study start than at the end (28%, 25). However, 30% versus 17% of participants with 2 HbA1c measurements achieved or maintained HbA1c ≤ 7% by the end of the program compared with the start. Participants who accessed more services were more likely to achieve glycemic control as measured by HbA1c (P > .01).

CONCLUSION

Although 30% of participants improved or maintained glycemic control over 2 years, more were uncontrolled at the end than at study start. Participants who accessed more primary and specialty care services were more likely to achieve glycemic control. Multidisciplinary care may improve diabetes control in low-income patients.