Enhanced tailored treatment plans for type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a complex chronic disease that affects millions of Australians. Optimal management is required to prevent micro- and macro-vascular complications including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, limb amputations, and blindness.

The value of a patient-centred, multidisciplinary approach to diabetes care has been reiterated in the literature. This may be implemented using tailored treatment plans, designed to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient. Based on these plans, healthcare professionals may assist patients to identify their priorities in care, appropriately manage medications, improve treatment compliance and prevent complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

The following module offers learning through a case study. It highlights an example of a tailored treatment plan for type 2 diabetes and identifies patient specific factors, which may be used to guide individualised treatment. It is aimed at any healthcare professional working in an Aboriginal health service and providing care to people with type 2 diabetes.

At the end of this module participants will be able to:

• Identify the value of a patient assessment and highlight the relevant information for type 2 diabetes management.
• Understand the measures used to monitor glycaemic control and the benefits of individualised HbA1c targets..
• Assess the risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes, and identify the recommended preventive measures based on risk.
• Discuss the general goals of diabetes care and understand how they can be modified to meet the specific needs of any patient.
• Review the use of hypoglycaemic agents in the management of type 2 diabetes and techniques for preventing hypoglycaemia.