HbA1c Point-of-Care Testing and its Role in the Management of Diabetes

Abstract

The San Joaquin Central Valley, known for its thriving agricultural industry, faces challenges related to low socioeconomic status, limited access to healthy food, and healthcare disparities. To enhance compliance among patients with diabetes, United Health Centers (UHC) implemented in-clinic HbA1c Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) to provide instant data for managing diabetes. The total number of patients with diabetes screened was 2,020 across three sites, with the total number of those in poor control totaling 825. Despite theorizing that these HbA1c machines would improve patient management, statistical analysis revealed no significant impact on diabetes control within the population. However, a closer examination of percentage data demonstrated clinical relevance across UHC sites. Initially, only one out of three UHC sites met the organization’s goal of keeping uncontrolled diabetic patient populations below 30%. After one year of POCT utilization, two out of three sites nearly achieved this goal, resulting in a 27% reduction in poorly managed diabetic patients. While the study’s duration may have limited statistical significance, further analysis and a longer study period could confirm the positive impact of HbA1c POCT on patient compliance.