Presentation Abstract

Session: Poster Session
Abstract Number: 820-P
Title: New York City A1C Registry Patient Outreach: The Patient Perspective
Presentation Start: 6/9/2012 11:30:00 AM
Presentation End: 6/9/2012 1:30:00 PM
Authors: JESSICA KATTAN, ANITA RICHICHI, BAHMAN TABAEI, ROSA ROSEN, LYNN SILVER, SHADI CHAMANY, Queens, NY, New York, NY.
Abstract: Since 2006, New York City (NYC) laboratories have been mandated to report A1C test results to the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). A primary activity of this A1C Registry is dissemination of provider and patient tools to improve diabetes control. One tool is a letter mailed by DOHMH (on health care facility letterhead) to adults with A1C test results >9%, informing patients of test results, providing educational material, and encouraging provider visits. Because this type of health department outreach is novel, DOHMH conducted a survey to assess patient response.
A total of 1,266 persons were sent a letter during January 1-March 31, 2009, of whom 292 (23%) were randomly selected for a telephone survey. Respondents were questioned regarding medical history, reaction to the letter, and self-reported health care-seeking and self-management behaviors.
Among 188 persons reached, 86 completed the survey. Fifty-two percent of respondents had diabetes for <10 years; 62% were taking insulin. Upon opening the letter, 53% of respondents reported feeling concerned, 28% interested, 8% scared, 6% did not know/remember, and 5% confused. After reading the letter, the majority of respondents reported feeling motivated (63%) or the same (33%). Overall, 91% of respondents said the letter was easy to understand. Among 77 respondents who reported a scheduled or completed appointment with their doctor since receiving the letter, 22% said the letter had prompted them to make the appointment. Regarding behavior changes among respondents after receipt of the letter, 59% reported changing diet, 36% how they took their medications, and 23% frequency of exercise; 83% reported ≥ 1 of these changes.
Overall, A1C Registry patient letters were well-received with limited negative reaction. The letters appear to have prompted modification of self-management behaviors and promoted follow-up with providers. These findings should be confirmed using outcome data on return to care and A1C levels among letter recipients.




Note: When adding presentations to your Itinerary, please click "Add Checked Selections to My Itinerary" on EACH page of your search results.

Note: Authors listed in bold are the presenting authors for those abstracts that have presentations.