Structured diabetes care (Freedom 365*) provides better glycemic control than routine medical care in type 2 diabetes: proof of concept observational study

To evaluate the efficacy of a structured diabetes care program (Freedom 365*) as compared to routine medical care (RMC), for management of type 2 diabetes.

A retrospective study of Freedom 365* program versus RMC for diabetes management was carried out. 388 participants (247 men, 141 women; mean age 57 years), who completed 1 year since first contact were analysed. All the participants received a detailed diabetes patient education program, at first contact with the centre and had the choice of opting for either Freedom 365* or RMC.

Out of 388 participants at baseline, 244 (154 men, 90 women) patients opted for Freedom 365* and 144 (93 men, 51 women) opted for RMC. The Freedom 365* group showed 90 % improvement, 2 % had no change and 8 % had deterioration in HbA1c levels. In the RMC group 82 % had improvement, 3 % had no change and 15 % showed deterioration in HbA1c levels. The Freedom 365* group had significantly greater drop in HbA1c [median 1.4 (−2.5, 7.7) vs.0.9 (−2.1, 8.9): p < 0.004], from baseline to follow up. The Freedom group had significantly better compliance in terms of frequency of screening/monitoring per annum for glycemic control [HbA1c –median 3(2, 4) vs. 2(0, 2): p < 0.001], lipid profile (100 vs. 95 %: p < 0.001), microalbuminuria (100 vs. 38 %: p < 0.0001), anaemia screening (100 vs. 29 %: p < 0.0001) and liver function test (100 vs. 29 %: p < 0.0001).

Freedom 365*, a structured diabetes care program of on-going diabetes education, diet and lifestyle correction, biochemical investigations, clinical monitoring and treatment at regular intervals, results in better clinical outcomes and adherence to therapy in management of type 2 diabetes as compared to RMC.