Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to implement a prediabetes screening and patient education process at a free clinic.|Background: 86 million people are living with prediabetes yet 90% are unaware they have the condition. While prediabetes risk assessment tests exist and are valuable, they are rarely utilized. Increased screening among adults with risk factors and subsequent risk management education is needed.|Sample/Setting: The setting was a free clinic in Boise, Idaho. The convenience sample included 29 adults age 45 years or older with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or greater. Six providers participated.|Methods: This was a convenience sample of adults who were screened and surveyed. Screening criteria included age 45 and older with a BMI of 25 or greater. The screening tool was the CDC Prediabetes Screening Test. Providers delivered patient education on prediabetes and risk management to those who scored high risk. To assess for improvement in providers use of prediabetes risk assessment testing, pre and post intervention surveys were performed. To determine if life style changes were made, patients completed surveys 4 weeks post intervention.|Results: Twenty-nine patients were screened. Twenty-six participants scored high risk for prediabetes. Twenty high risk patients received education. Providers failed to educate six of the patients. All providers increased their prediabetes screening and patient education practices. Patient survey results taken four weeks post intervention showed 90% of patients who received education reported subsequent lifestyle changes.|Conclusions: Primary care providers should consider screening all patients who have two or more prediabetes risk factors. Education should be provided to patients who score high risk, so they learn how to mitigate their risks. With regular screening, identification and education of patients at high risk for prediabetes, providers can help patients reduce their risks of developing diabetes.