Empowering Diabetes Patients with Technology and Personalized Care
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is making strides in diabetes care, earning recognition as one of the top providers in the country by both the American Diabetes Association and The Leapfrog Group. This distinction highlights LVHN’s commitment to helping patients manage their diabetes, especially through the use of new technologies and personalized care.
Dr. Robert McCauley, chief of endocrinology at LVHN, is excited about the advancements in diabetes management, particularly the role of new medications and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. These CGMs are a game-changer for many patients, allowing them to check their blood sugar levels quickly and easily throughout the day, without the need for painful finger pricks.
Key Takeaways:
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) is a Game-Changer: Dr. McCauley emphasizes that CGMs offer not just convenience, but valuable data for both patients and healthcare providers. The systems provide insights into blood sugar levels before and after meals, during exercise, and overnight—times when patients might not typically check. This data helps patients understand how their bodies respond to different foods, activities, and medications.
- Patients Can Take Control: By using CGMs, patients can make more informed decisions about their health. For example, they might notice a spike in blood sugar after drinking soda, prompting them to reconsider their choices. Dr. McCauley highlights the beauty of this technology: when patients see the impact of their daily choices in real time, they’re often motivated to make positive changes.
- It’s About Small Wins: While CGMs can significantly improve diabetes management, they only work when patients use them regularly. Dr. McCauley says that even modest goals, like checking blood sugar once a day, can lead to improvements. He uses motivational interviewing to help patients set realistic targets and stay engaged with their care plan.
- Health Coaching Can Make a Difference: LVHN also offers health coaching for patients who need extra support. Coaches work with patients to set achievable goals and provide encouragement, whether it’s through phone calls or other communication. This personalized approach helps patients feel more in control of their diabetes.
- It’s a Journey, Not a Quick Fix: Managing diabetes is never easy, and every patient’s journey is different. Dr. McCauley stresses that the key is to celebrate small successes and focus on progress, even if it’s incremental. In some cases, the goal is simply to keep the condition from getting worse, and sometimes, that’s a win in itself.
Dr. McCauley’s approach underscores the importance of partnership between healthcare providers and patients. By using the latest technology, offering tailored support, and celebrating small wins, Lehigh Valley Health Network is helping people with diabetes take charge of their health, one step at a time.