Guidelines on the care of diabetic nephropathy, retinopathy and foot disease.

Diabetes mellitus is a common disease frequently managed by family physicians. Because of its high prevalence and associated comorbidity, diabetes mellitus has received a great deal of attention from several specialty organizations. The American Diabetes Association, the American Board of Family Practice and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have published specific practice guidelines and recommendations for the care of diabetic patients. These recommendations include annual comprehensive foot examinations, yearly ophthalmologic screening for retinopathy, and urinalysis for microalbuminuria. The use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors is advocated for the majority of diabetic patients with proteinuria or hypertension. Based on recent evidence, improved glycemic control is also increasingly advocated. Compliance with practice guidelines by primary care physicians has historically been poor. Mechanisms such as the use of patient problem lists and diabetic flow sheets can serve as reminders to physicians and can facilitate closer adherence to practice guidelines.