A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY TO IMPROVE DIABETIC CONTROL FOR THE UNDERSERVED POPULATION THROUGH EDUCATION AND SCREENINGS

Diabetes is a growing epidemic in the underserved population. Type 2 diabetes is one of the largest health concerns affecting Americans. Over 37 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes and over 7 million are undiagnosed. One out of three Americans have prediabetes, but only 12% are aware of this condition.1 Diabetes can lead to serious health conditions including cardiac, renal, retinal and vascular conditions. A step towards controlling diabetes is performing an HbA1C test, but many people are not adequately screened or educated on the risk of diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recognizes a HbA1c as an evidence-based tool used in monitoring diabetes and diabetic determination.

More than 28 million Americans are considered underserved with approximately 9% of Americans are classified as diabetics.1 Only 68% of this population are considered compliant with their diabetic treatment.9 The lack of diabetic control is caused by the inability to seek healthcare and a lack of diabetic supplies, screenings and treatment.7 The ADA determined that the underserved population suffering with diabetes is impacted 48 times more than any other population.