(11/13/23) From the latest Hope Lives Here Newsletter: Publications | Chase Brexton Health Care
Did you know one in 10 people in the United States have diabetes and one in three are prediabetic? However, diabetes can be managed or even prevented with exercise, proper nutrition, medications, and the right support. Many Chase Brexton patients struggle to cope with uncontrolled diabetes and need help in managing the condition.
In 2021, the Diabetes Management Program at Chase Brexton Health Care (CBHC) was developed to provide patients living with diabetes personalized, high quality healthcare, self-care strategies, and disease management skills necessary to improve their health and quality of life using the tools and support gained from the interdisciplinary Diabetes Management care team.
Patients in the program regularly meet with their care team, that includes primary care providers, registered dietitians, clinical pharmacy specialists, and pharmacy technicians, with each offering their expertise to create a catered management plan for each patient.
Dr. Briana Murray, a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist working at Chase Brexton’s Mt. Vernon Center, says, “Our program empowers patients by providing them with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to take control of their diabetes and work towards their health goals. We also help patients develop self-management skills, make informed decisions, and track their progress in the program. The emphasis is on collaborative goal-setting and ongoing guidance, enabling patients to lead healthier lives and achieve better diabetes control.”
One such patient reaching his diabetes goals is Melvin H., a 45-year-old patient receiving care at Chase Brexton’s Mt. Vernon Center.
After a dangerous A1C reading, Melvin became nervous about complications and wanted to find a way to improve this number. He was referred to the Diabetes Management Program and was connected with Dr. Murray. After just a few weeks, Melvin began seeing positive results in both his A1C and his weight loss.
“The program is very straight forward. We focus on the targets and goals, and I’m happy to say I’ve been hitting all my targets! I appreciate the ability to scan my arm with the phone for readings.” — Melvin
When asked if he would recommend the program to others, Melvin enthusiastically said, “I would recommend it to anybody! If you’re having problems, join the Program. Chase Brexton should have a whole floor of Diabetes doctors, it’s so helpful. It needs to be at all Chase Brexton [Centers].” The success of the Diabetes Program for people like Melvin has allowed us to do just that: expand across CBHC.
“Our initial program started at Columbia Center,” said Mahro Ershadi, Chase Brexton’s Chief Pharmacy and Strategy Officer. “We have expanded our program to Mount Vernon and Glen Burnie this year thanks to a $1.16 million seed grant from Quest Diagnostics, and plan to expand to Randallstown (Security Square) in January 2024.” The impact of this program in just a short amount of time is life changing. The program currently boasts over 500 patients. Expanding the program using best practices and metrics will allow it to flourish well into the future.
Learn more about The Diabetes Management Program here: Diabetes Management | Chase Brexton Health Care
