New Tool Improves Diabetes Education

Nurses at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo, part of Catholic Health, introduced a Diabetes Education Quick Tips sheet, a new tool to help patients better understand their diabetes. This reference sheet has visual graphics and an easy-to-follow format that has been well received by patients. The Quick Tips sheet was piloted in August 2016 and rolled out throughout the hospital and health system by October 2016. It was reviewed by the hospital's endocrinologists and included in the hospital's diabetes education kit. The sheet is also available for patients to take home for further guidance. Since introducing the Quick Tips sheet, patient satisfaction scores have increased and hospital readmission rates among diabetes patients have decreased.

This case study is part of the HANYS Triple Aim series highlighting how New York hospitals are improving health, enhancing quality and reducing costs. Hospitals, nursing homes and home care agencies across New York state are pursuing the Triple Aim. In spite of fiscal constraints, HANYS members are embracing the challenge of transforming health care and are implementing new and innovative approaches to delivery.