The Shawnee County Commission Work Session on May 22, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in healthcare support for diabetic patients. Key discussions focused on the effectiveness of a remote monitoring program and the responsiveness of a dedicated help desk for medication-related inquiries.

During the session, officials reported a successful outreach initiative, noting that there were no direct phone calls to prescribing physicians regarding clinical alerts, indicating a positive trend in patient management. However, there were 62 identified gaps in care, alongside 39 calls to the help desk from individuals seeking assistance with medication questions, such as side effects or cost-effective alternatives.

The help desk, staffed by pharmacists, provides live support to address these concerns, ensuring that patients receive timely and accurate information. This service is crucial for maintaining patient safety and satisfaction.

Additionally, the remote monitoring program for diabetic patients was emphasized as a key resource. Participants in this program receive free diabetic meters, lances, and strips, along with medications at reduced costs. Currently, 14 members are actively using the cellular-enabled meters, which allow pharmacists to monitor their glucose readings in real time. This proactive approach enables healthcare providers to intervene quickly if readings indicate potential issues.

The results from the program are promising, with an average A1C level of 7 among participants, meeting the target goal. Notably, there has been a 1.5-point reduction in A1C levels for those engaged in the program, with six individuals experiencing a drop of more than one point.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing healthcare services and improving outcomes for diabetic patients through innovative monitoring and support systems. Further developments in these programs are anticipated as the county continues to prioritize health initiatives.