An Evaluation of a Shared Care Diabetes Project

Abstract

Shared care projects involve cooperation between general practitioners, specialist health professionals, and education and support services, to ensure clients receive optimal assessment, treatment and support. The Melbourne Division of General Practitioners Diabetes Service provided shared care to improve the care of patients with diabetes mellitus and reduce the incidence of complications. An evaluation of the Service was conducted using a database of 847 client records maintained by the Service and a survey of 35 GPs and 134 clients. Analysis of the client database indicated a positive trend for improved physical outcomes of clients attending the Service. Survey findings showed GPs and clients attributed improved patient attitude and knowledge of diabetes to the Service. Although GPs and clients were satisfied with the Service, GPs with more positive attitudes were more likely to be interested in placements and case discussions with other health professionals, and more often attributed an improved GP/patient relationship to the Service. The study highlights the need for integrated diabetes care to include partnerships between Divisions of General Practice, community health services, specialists and hospital service providers. It also shows the need to integrate referral and reporting systems, database management, GP services, diabetes education and allied health with hospital based services.