Coaching programs have been shown to improve diabetes outcomes. We investigate a novel approach where pharmacists, trained in diabetes care, provide coaching for patients in poor control. Coaches addressed all aspects of diabetes care, yet the program was cost-neutral to clinical operations. The UMass Memorial Diabetes Center of Excellence clinic follows ~10,000 patients. We provide interdisciplinary team-based care by endocrinologists, NPs, CDCESs and nutritionists. Those with HbA1c ≥9% over two consecutive visits, despite best efforts by the team, were referred to the “Care Coach” program. Coaches had an initial in-person visit followed by weekly (or where appropriate less frequent) phone visits. Benefits from frequent interaction with the Coaches (Table) came from: 1) Medication management: improved medication adherence and rapid adjustments between visits; 2) Assistance with lowering drug costs; 3) Diabetes technology: greater adoption of CGM and fingerstick testing; 4) Motivational support for dietary and exercise goals; 5) Efficient modification of care plans by integrating the Coach within the care team; 6) Better patient engagement in their care plan. The program is financially self-sustaining as coaches are employed by the hospital associated Shields Health Solutions Specialty Pharmacy and funding for Coach salaries is generated via patient prescriptions and 340B program.
S.Malkani: None. R.A.Haas: None. V.Shah: None. H.Sharma: None. G.Pugliese: None. C.Barry: None. L.Piz: None. W.Mcelnea: None.
