Multidisciplinary care plans and diabetes Benefits for patients with poor glycaemic control

Background The authors have previously found that multidisciplinary care plans are associated with improved processes and outcomes of care for diabetic patients. This article examines whether care plans are more likely to be Implemented and have greater benefit for patients with poor metabolic control. Methods Retrospective before and after medical record audit of 230 type 2 diabetic patients with care plans. Results There was more multidisciplinary care provided and a significant decrease in mean post-care plan glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in patients who had a pro-care plan HbA1c level of more than 7%, but no significant change in those patients with HbA1c of 7% or less. Discussion Care plans are beneficial and more often implemented for patients with poor metabolic control. If this positive impact is due to the implementation of multidisciplinary care, questions are raised about the relative effectiveness of general practitioner management plans and team care arrangements, as the former do not necessarily involve other health professionals.