Chitra Yeshwanth, MS, MPH, Underserved and Rural Project, Florida Medical Quality Assurance, Inc, 4350, West Cypress St, Suite 900, Tampa, FL 33607, (813) 354-9111 x 3319, cyeshwanth@flqio.sdps.org

The Underserved & Rural Diabetes project was developed to improve the hemoglobin A1c test rate in the African-American Medicare diabetic population and reduce the disparity between this population and non-African-Americans. Beneficiary and physician intervention strategies are used to reach the target population in 167 zip codes (30 counties).

Beneficiary component: More than 60 stakeholders with diabetes education programs and working with Medicare beneficiaries were recruited as partners. The purpose was to (1) train stakeholders on the importance of the A1c test in a train-the-trainer program format, (2) disseminate culturally sensitive educational materials to beneficiaries, (3) share connections, resources and expertise to intensify efforts and conserve funds. A media campaign was developed for Black History Month to reach African Americans with diabetes.

Physician component: Physician champions accompanied by nurse project coordinators met with physicians in target areas to (1) promote the A1c test through academic detailing, (2) provide system change tools, and (3) disseminate culturally sensitive materials to beneficiaries. More than 179 physician visits have been completed. Physicians and stakeholders received baseline data and receive interim data in continued efforts to eliminate disparity among the target population.

Learning Objectives: