Year

2011

Season

Spring

Paper Type

Doctoral Project

College

Brooks College of Health

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Kathaleen C. Bloom

Second Advisor

Dr. Barbara Olinzock

Third Advisor

Dr. Doreen Radjenovic

Department Chair

Dr. Lillia M. Loriz

College Dean

Dr. Pamela A. Chally

Abstract

Diabetes is a condition that is primarily self-managed and lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and weight management are necessary to reduce morbidity and mortality. Motivation to implement lifestyle modifications through self management is an integral part of disease management and studies have shown group medical visits are more effective than individual appointments in this patient population. The purpose of this project was to develop, implement and evaluate an evidencebased group medical visit program for up to a maximum of 8 adult patients with type 2 diabetes in a family practice setting for six months. Seven participants with abnormal A1C results accepted the invitation to attend group medical visits. Here surrounded by peers with the same diagnosis, they were able to learn and discuss methods to self manage their type 2 diabetes. At the conclusion post survey results indicate positive change in some lifestyle behaviors and improvement with hemoglobin A1C. However there was no improvement in weight management. A cost analysis reveals group medical visits may generate a small profit when compared to individual visits. Group medical visits may offer an effective means to motivate patients to make lifestyle change to reduce risk.

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