Benefits of Computerized Outcome Analysis in Diabetes Management

Abstract

ObjectiveTo observe the effects of a computerized relational database designed to measure outcomes and enhance adherence to recommended diabetes management guidelines in a specialty private practice setting. MethodsDiaTrends, a software program specifically designed to monitor the processes and outcomes of diabetes care, was introduced in a private endocrinology practice in 1996. Information on all patients with diabetes (N = 1,096) was recorded in the database. Reports (“queries”) were developed to monitor the adherence to recommended guidelines and to assess the outcomes of care for patients with diabetes treated with glucose-lowering medications. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and lipid control were selected from the many outcomes and processes of care monitored as the basis of this report. ResultsData were collected on 1,096 patients between 1996 and 1998. We were able to monitor adherence to published diabetes guidelines and to document the outcomes. Parallel trends toward improvement were noted in both HbA1c and lipid variables. The average HbA1c achieved for the entire patient population was 7.3%. ConclusionUsing a computerized database to monitor glycemic control and lipid management is effective in evaluating the outcomes of care and provides a focused approach that enhances diabetes care. These improvements in metabolic outcomes likely reflect a change in the practice patterns of the physicians as a consequence of using this computerized database system. (Endocr Pract. 2000;6:253-259)