Abstract
The purpose of this project was to assist the primary care provider (PCP) in formulating an effective diabetes self-management plan through the implementation of a standardized diabetes assessment tool. Between 1988 and 2014, the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes in the United States increased 382% (American Diabetes Association, 2016) with local PCPs responsible for appropriate diabetes care. Hastings Family Care, a family practice clinic located in central Nebraska, was the setting for this quality improvement project. The sample included eight PCPs and six diabetes nurse educators. PCPs and diabetes nurse educators were surveyed on the benefit of incorporating a standardized assessment tool. All PCPs and nurse educators agreed that a standardized tool was beneficial and provided clear direction in formulating a new management plan. A sample of 60 charts indicated that 55% of the patients received some type of referral to ancillary and support staff. Incorporating a standardized assessment tools provides the direction needed to identify areas of change. With limited time in PCP visits, collaborating with diabetes educators ensures that the assessment tool is completed, a new management plans is formulated, and appropriate referrals are initiated.