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Applications Open: ADA and Leapfrog Launch Hospital-Recognition Program for Diabetes Care

Written by: Christine Fallabel

3 minute read

July 23, 2024

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) and The Leapfrog Group announced a new partnership in the summer of 2023 to create a first-of-its-kind recognition program based on how people with diabetes are treated and managed after a hospital admission.

In order to hold hospitals accountable for managing patients’ diabetes while they are in the hospital, this program specifically recognizes hospitals that make a commitment to patient safety.

Anyone who lives with diabetes knows how scary it can be to find yourself in the hospital when you live with diabetes. This program seeks to better inform people with diabetes about which hospitals understand their needs and health concerns best when choosing care.

Are People with Diabetes at Risk in Hospitals?

  • Studies show that more than 200,000 people die every year from preventable infections, accidents, and errors while in the hospital.
  • People with diabetes may be put in danger when diabetes control is neglected.
    • Especially if you are unable to manage your diabetes during your stay (e.g., if you are undergoing surgery and will be sedated).
  • Hospital staff is frequently overworked.
  • Diabetes is a 24/7 condition and still needs to be managed, even if it is not the reason for the visit.

Excellence Through ‘Unwavering Commitment to Patient Safety’

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) and The Leapfrog Group named 17 hospitals as leaders in diabetes care for their patients in 2024.

“At The Leapfrog Group, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the outstanding leadership of health care professionals who are making a profound difference in the lives of patients living with diabetes,” says Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “These leaders exemplify excellence through their unwavering commitment to patient safety and quality care, particularly for those at high risk of harm from errors. Their dedication and exceptional focus set a standard for what is possible in diabetes management, and we are thrilled to recognize their extraordinary efforts.”

Through its partnership with the American Diabetes Association, Binder says the Leapfrog Group looks forward to honoring even more of these remarkable leaders in the year ahead and continuing to support advancements in diabetes care.

“Together, we strive to ensure that every patient receives the highest standard of care, ultimately transforming diabetes management for the better.”

Applications Are Open for 2025

The annual recognition program has now opened up its application for consideration in 2025.

The application is live now and will remain open through November 30, 2024, for recognition as a leader in diabetes care in 2025.

Through this voluntary program, hospitals can demonstrate their dedication to provide safe, high-quality treatment for all individuals living with diabetes by submitting:

  • Their data
  • Their successes
  • Their clinical outcomes, and
  • Any novel multidisciplinary approaches to diabetes management.

Robert A. McCauley, MD, chief of endocrinology at the Lehigh Valley Health Network in Allentown, Pennsylvania, a hospital that was recognized by the program in its first year, says being a Recognized Leader in Caring for People Living with Diabetes program award recipient is a great honor.

“The award recognized the hard work our system has put into improving the care of patients with diabetes,” says Dr. McCauley. “It is estimated that approximately one-third of hospitalized patients are affected by diabetes. It takes the whole team of physicians, nurses, support staff, dieticians, and educators to work together to ensure our patients get the best care possible for their diabetes.”

McCauley adds that ensuring the safety of hospital patients with diabets involves proper timing of:

  • Glucose checks
  • Meal deliveries
  • Insulin doses
  • Regular assessments by clinicians to adjust medications as a patient’s condition changes during their hospitalization.

“We collaborate with our patients to ensure they are comfortable with their diabetes management in the hospital,” says Dr. McCauley. “This is particularly important for our patients on insulin pumps. Patients are often very adept at managing their diabetes at home, but once they are admitted to the hospital there are new challenges to tackle, and working collaboratively, we can help achieve optimal outcomes and assure patients comfort with inpatient diabetes management.”

Dr. McCauley has high hopes for this recognition going forward.

“Finally, I hope that the patients see this recognition and realize that Lehigh Valley Health Network is a true partner in caring for their diabetes and trust us with their healthcare needs.”

Speak with your physician about becoming a leader in this new initiative if you recently had excellent diabetes treatment while in the hospital. By doing this, they will be able to obtain this crucial recognition, which will help other people with diabetes decide which hospitals to visit first when they are in need of medical attention.

Author

Christine Fallabel

Christine Fallabel has been living with type 1 diabetes since 2000. She's a health and science writer and has been featured in Diabetes Daily Grind, Insulin Nation, Diabetics Doing Things, and is a regular contributor to Diabetes Strong, T1D Exchange and Healthline. She earned her Master of Public Health from Temple University and received her Bachelor of Arts from The University of Delaware. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking with her husband in the mountains of Colorado, tinkering with her DIY Loop insulin pump, drinking strong coffee and reading in front of a cozy fire.