Number of people who begin the DSME program
Current Value
61
Definition
Story Behind the Curve
The Diabetes Program was without a Registered Dietitian for about 1.5 years. Angie Watson was hired in latter October 2018 to work exclusively with the diabetes program. As she settled in, participation and initial visits increased.
In addition, referral sources increased. One of the physicians at ECU (where Angie had left) continued to refer to our program until a new dietitian was hired.
Due to Covid, Telehealth initiatives were implemented, which gave another option to individuals. During 2020, Bertie County started referring their patients to our facility. Part of the rationale behind this new referral source was that we had offered telehealth services. While this platform was available, many participants still wanted to participate in-person.
Part of the decline seen in 2021 may be due to decreased referrals from Bertie County. We are not certain why referrals have decreased at this time.
Partners
Pitt Partners for Health
ECU Health
Bernstein
Prevent Blindness North Carolina
Provider Offices within the community
ECU Women's Basketball team
ECU Department of Public Health
Bertie County Regional Health Association
What Works
Telehealth during Covid
Relationships with providers
Having experienced staff who can make recommendations to providers
Community outreach
Diabetes Support Group may contribute to self referrals
Action Plan
Pursue administrative support to assist with referrals.
Continue relationship with providers and identify barriers to referring
Actively promote program to employees