Best Diabetes Management Products

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) was a major multi-center clinical research study exploring whether modest weight loss through dietary changes and increased physical activity or treatment with the oral diabetes drug metformin could prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. DPP participants were all overweight and had blood glucose levels higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes - a condition called pre-diabetes. The DPP found that participants who lost a modest amount of weight through dietary changes and increased physical activity sharply reduced their chances of developing diabetes. Companies have digitized and virtualized the DPP, relying on technology to facilitate and support key elements of the program.

A number of digital solutions have been developed to allow patients to more closely monitor their blood sugar and to receive personalized coaching and behavior change support through their smartphone or other device.

After making an initial connection, the CHW helps the patient set goals and keep up with the clinical care plan, also addressing any psychosocial, resource, and advocacy issues that arise. Often CHWs will focus on particular clinical diagnoses, like diabetes, asthma, hypertension, cancer, and maternal and child health.

Emergency Department: In the ED, CHWs have been especially successful in lowering unnecessary visits and readmissions, and in improving communication--when used to support care coordination with primary care after ED discharge.

Maternal and Infant Health: CHWs have contributed to decreased rates of infant mortality and low birth weight, as well as improved prenatal care access and utilization when completing prenatal and postpartum in-home visits and care management.