Addressing Uncontrolled Diabetes in Primary Care: A Lifestyle Redesign Approach

Addressing Uncontrolled Diabetes in Primary Care: A Lifestyle Redesign Approach

This study is examining the feasibility of implementing an occupational therapy intervention addressing diabetes management in a primary care clinic within the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services (LAC-DHS), as well as the impact of this intervention approach on clinical outcomes, efficiency and patient-centeredness of care. This implementation science study is evaluating two emerging trends in healthcare delivery: (1) the integration of nontraditional providers into primary care medical home (PCMH) settings to facilitate the delivery of high-quality, comprehensive primary care while reducing the burden on physicians; and (2) the potential value of using occupational therapists to address chronic disease management in this setting

Inclusion Criteria:

• Current patient at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center Adult West Primary Care clinic
• Diagnosed diabetes (type 1 or type 2) documented in EMR
• Most recent HbA1c level >9.0% OR has not had an HbA1c measurement within past 12 months
• Per provider judgment, would be willing to make lifestyle changes related to diabetes self-care

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active, untreated substance use or behavioral health disorder which interferes with participation in major life activities