Feet walking in grass
Coats and boots will soon be tucked away to make room for shorts and sandals!  The shedding of socks and shoes is the perfect reminder for those diagnosed with diabetes to schedule a foot exam.

A foot examination by a primary care provider at least once a year can prevent minor concerns from becoming a health crisis. Common foot conditions including foot ulcers, nerve damage and poor circulation can lead to amputation if not properly treated.

The American Diabetes Association provides a list of recommendations for proper foot care:

  • Check your feet every day.
  • Be more active.
  • Ask your doctor about Medicare coverage for special shoes.
  • Wash your feet every day.
  • Keep your skin soft and smooth.
  • If you can see and reach your toenails, trim them when needed.
  • Wear shoes and socks at all times.
  • Protect your feet from hot and cold.
  • Keep the blood flowing to your feet.

The Great Plains Quality Innovation Network’s efforts to reduce disparities in diabetes care includes working to increase Medicare consumer participation in Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) classes utilizing Chronic Disease Models, such as the Stanford Chronic Disease Program and the Diabetes Empowerment Education (DEEP) program.

Each program includes six weekly sessions led by a trained facilitator.  Participants receive education and support for managing diabetes through improved lifestyle behaviors, including diet, exercise and foot care.

Providers can refer patients to this community-based resource, which research has shown helps participants improve their health behaviors, health outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization. Learn more about diabetes education and quality improvement on the diabetes web page or by reaching out to your local Great Plains QIN contact.