A service improvement project to improve follow up screening rates of women with gestational diabetes

Abstract

Diabetes in pregnant women presents significant implications for long-term health. The best way to manage them in practice is outlined here by Joanna Stace A history of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) can have significant implications for women's long-term health. Despite these risks, primary care rates for post-natal screening are low. A Service Improvement Project (SIP) was implemented as part of an MSc in Advanced Diabetes Care undertaken at Birmingham City University. Its aims were to improve post-natal follow-up care for women with GDM, reduce the risk of developing T2DM enhancing their long-term health. A key success of the SIP is the improved knowledge of the importance of post-natal screening amongst staff and women. Increased numbers of women being correctly coded and offered post-natal screening highlighting the importance of healthcare integration for better patient outcomes. Work continues to improve referral rates and attendance of the National Diabetes Prevention Programme with the roll out of an Electronic Care Pathway.