Nazma Akter Nazu1,2, Jaana Lindström1,2, Päivi Rautiainen3, Hilkka Tirkkonen3, Katja Wikström2,4, Teppo Repo5, Tiina Laatikainen2,3,4. 1. Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland. 2. Department of Public Health Solutions, National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland. 3. Joint Municipal Authority for North Karelia Social and Health Services (Siun Sote), Joensuu, Finland. 4. Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland. 5. Department of Geographical and Historical Studies, University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu, Finland.
Abstract
AIMS: This study assessed type 2 diabetes treatment outcomes and process indicators using a comprehensive type 2 diabetes patient cohort in North Karelia, Finland, from 2011 to 2016. METHODS: Data from all diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients (n = 8429) living in North Karelia were collated retrospectively from regional electronic patient records. We assessed whether HbA1c and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were measured and managed as recommended. RESULTS: The HbA1c measurement rate improved (78% vs 89%) during 2011-2012 and 2015-2016, but a gradual deterioration in glycaemic control (HbA1c < 7.0% or 53 mmol/mol) was observed among both females (75% vs 67%) and males (72% vs 64%). The LDL measurement rate initially improved from the baseline. LDL control (<2.5 mmol/L) improved among both females (52% vs 59%) and males (58% vs 66%). A gender difference was observed in the achievement of the treatment target for LDL, with females showing worse control. CONCLUSIONS: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) control in type 2 diabetes patients has improved, but the existence of gender disparities needs further attention. Maintaining appropriate HbA1c control among type 2 diabetes patients over time appears to be difficult. Active follow-up and tailored treatment have the potential to improve the quality of care. Electronic patient records could be more efficiently used to improve the quality of care and to support decision-making.
AIMS: This study assessed type 2 diabetes treatment outcomes and process indicators using a comprehensive type 2 diabetespatient cohort in North Karelia, Finland, from 2011 to 2016. METHODS: Data from all diagnosed type 2 diabetespatients (n = 8429) living in North Karelia were collated retrospectively from regional electronic patient records. We assessed whether HbA1c and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were measured and managed as recommended. RESULTS: The HbA1c measurement rate improved (78% vs 89%) during 2011-2012 and 2015-2016, but a gradual deterioration in glycaemic control (HbA1c < 7.0% or 53 mmol/mol) was observed among both females (75% vs 67%) and males (72% vs 64%). The LDL measurement rate initially improved from the baseline. LDL control (<2.5 mmol/L) improved among both females (52% vs 59%) and males (58% vs 66%). A gender difference was observed in the achievement of the treatment target for LDL, with females showing worse control. CONCLUSIONS: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) control in type 2 diabetespatients has improved, but the existence of gender disparities needs further attention. Maintaining appropriate HbA1c control among type 2 diabetespatients over time appears to be difficult. Active follow-up and tailored treatment have the potential to improve the quality of care. Electronic patient records could be more efficiently used to improve the quality of care and to support decision-making.
Authors: Piia Lavikainen; Emma Aarnio; Miika Linna; Kari Jalkanen; Hilkka Tirkkonen; Päivi Rautiainen; Tiina Laatikainen; Janne Martikainen Journal: PLoS One Date: 2022-06-01 Impact factor: 3.752
Authors: Tuula Marketta Martiskainen; Marja-Leena Lamidi; Mika Venojärvi; Heikki Tikkanen; Tiina Laatikainen Journal: BMJ Open Date: 2022-07-04 Impact factor: 3.006
Authors: Piia Lavikainen; Emma Aarnio; Kari Jalkanen; Hilkka Tirkkonen; Päivi Rautiainen; Tiina Laatikainen; Janne Martikainen Journal: BMC Health Serv Res Date: 2020-11-27 Impact factor: 2.655