Nazli Parast
University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Canada
Title: Participation in Prediabetes Education Post Discharge from a Cardiac Institution
Biography
Biography: Nazli Parast
Abstract
Background
Improving glycemic control through lifestyle change in people with prediabetes can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. “Impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance are associated with modest increases in the risk for cardiovascular disease” 1. Study done by Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group reveals the importance of early education regarding lifestyle change s will reduce risk of or delay the diagnosis of diabetes 2.
As part of a medical directive to manage dysglycemia at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute (UOHI), all in- patients are screened utilizing HbA1C. Those identified with prediabetes are provided with education material on prediabetes and HbA1c and referred to a community education program closest to client’s preferred location. These patients are also followed post discharge by interactive voice response. An automated voice activated system that cues and coaches people to eat regular meals, promotes physical activity and reminds them of the importance of attending education on prediabetes. The hospital has been referring people to several community programs over the last two years.
Purpose
To find out whether or not people with prediabetes who are referred from a cardiac hospital, attend a community diabetes education program.
Methods
Retrospective attendance analysis of 91 people who have been referred from one cardiac hospital, UOHI, to one community program , Community Diabetes Education Program of Ottawa (CDEPO), for diabetes education. A community program with the largest number of educational sites across the city was chosen. A period of 13 months was analyzed between January 2015-January 2016.
Results
A total of 91 referrals were received for prediabetes; 30% attended a diabetes education group and 9% attended an individual session with a diabetes educator(s) (Fig.1). The results show a low attendance rate of these individuals to a community program. Further investigation is required to improve attendance rate.