As a part of the North Carolina Association of Free and Charitable Clinics Model for Improvement, WATCH regularly completes PDSA worksheets (Plan-Do-Study-Act). This model allows us to review our current patient data, make a plan to improve the outcomes, carry out the changes, analyze the outcomes, and modify the plan as needed. 

Below are some examples of the criteria on which we are evaluated:

The American Diabetes Association Guidelines recommend annual comprehensive foot exam to identify risk factors predictive of ulcer and amputations. Our healthcare providers complete a simple screen exam annually for all diabetic patients. 

The monitoring of a diabetic patient’s A1c (a blood test used to measure the average level of glucose in the blood over the last two to three months) allows the provider to adjust the patient’s medication to improve glycemic control. Intensive diabetes therapy has been shown to delay the onset and slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy in patients with diabetes. Our providers ensure that each diabetic patient’s A1c is checked every 3 months until under control and then every six months. 

Regular microalbumin tests check for protein in the urine of diabetic patients. Early detection modifies treatment in an effort to preserve as much kidney function as possible. By scheduling a microalbumin test once a year, we can monitor any changes effectively.

According to the American Diabetes Association, if you are a diabetic who is 30 years or older, you should have an annual retinal eye exam, no matter the length of time you have had diabetes. Working with Prevent Blindness NC, we are able to schedule quarterly retinal scans at our office and ensure these occur annually for each diabetic patient.

As required by the Joint National Committee (JNC 8) hypertension guidelines, all hypertensive patients aged 60 or less with no diabetes and/or chronic kidney disease should have a blood pressure goal of less than 140/90. Those 60 or older without either diagnosis have a goal of 150/90 or less. Patients of any age, who have a diabetes and/or chronic kidney disease diagnosis should have a blood pressure of less than 140/90. Monitoring patient blood pressure at every appointment ensures appropriate prescription management for our hypertensive patients.

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The path towards a brighter and healthier smile starts with foundational knowledge about oral health. This website is an educational resource to provide a better understanding of oral health for all ages and populations. The page includes information for patients and providers alike to learn more about oral hygiene, routine maintenance, treatment plans, and more.

https://oralhealthnc.org/healthy-mouths-r10/

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