#United States #Diabetes Care #Fountain Valley #MemorialCare #American Heart Association

MemorialCare Medical Group and Independent Physicians Recognized for Diabetes Care Excellence

MemorialCare Medical Group and its affiliated Independent Physicians have garnered national attention by receiving the esteemed Target: Type 2 Diabetes Gold achievement award from the American Heart Association. This recognition highlights their unparalleled commitment to delivering high-quality diabetes care, specifically aimed at managing cardiovascular risks associated with Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes, especially Type 2, presents a significant public health challenge, with the American Heart Association estimating about 29.3 million adults in the U.S. diagnosed with this condition. What's even more concerning is that approximately 9.7 million adults are believed to be living with undiagnosed diabetes. Furthermore, cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality for those with Type 2 diabetes, complicating their health outcomes and increasing the prevalence of heart-related conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.

The American Heart Association's Target: Type 2 Diabetes gold designation is bestowed upon healthcare organizations demonstrating excellence in the management of diabetes and its associated risks. MemorialCare’s recognized efforts reflect their dedication to early detection, effective management, and improved quality of life for their patients. Key clinical outcomes noted included commendable management of blood glucose levels, as illustrated by the HbA1c metrics, and the achievement of optimal blood pressure targets.

Dr. Elizabeth Mahler, Chief Medical Officer of the MemorialCare Medical Foundation, shared the organization’s vision by stating, "Our aim is to make diabetes care practical and personalized, enabling patients to effectively manage their condition daily and, consequently, achieve healthier lives while minimizing hospitalization risks." This honor not only acknowledges their commitment but also underscores their passion for serving the community effectively.

However, despite the evident risks, a survey conducted by The Harris Poll revealed disturbing statistics. It found that only half of individuals aged 45 and over, living with Type 2 diabetes, were aware of their increased susceptibility to heart-related complications. This gap in awareness emphasizes the necessity for healthcare providers like MemorialCare to educate their patients on the implications of diabetes beyond just managing their blood sugar levels.

A standout initiative is the MemorialCare ACTIVE Diabetes Program. This comprehensive program assists individuals struggling with their diabetes management by connecting them with an interdisciplinary team consisting of pharmacists, social workers, and dietitians. Together, they work with patients on understanding diabetes, recognizing its effects, and encouraging positive lifestyle changes. The goal of the program is not just to control blood sugar levels but to empower individuals in their healthcare journey.

Jessica Kwon, Vice President of Population Health at MemorialCare Medical Foundation, emphasized that the success of this recognition can be credited to the unwavering dedication of the MemorialCare team. She stated, "Our physicians, nurses, and clinical personnel have an intrinsic commitment to provide the best health outcomes for the patients we serve, a commitment that has been validated by the recognition from the American Heart Association."

MemorialCare Medical Foundation operates within a non-profit, integrated healthcare system that encompasses MemorialCare Medical Group and Independent Physicians. The organization represents over 1,700 physicians across various specialties, providing services that range from family medicine to specialized care such as cardiology and oncology. Notably, patients can also access MemorialCare’s cutting-edge virtual care service, "Get Care Now," which offers round-the-clock HIPAA-compliant consultations for urgent and primary care needs.

As an organization, MemorialCare continues to strive for excellence, hoping to extend their services and outreach in Diabetes care across California. The outstanding commitment they've demonstrated not only serves their patients but also signifies a model for effective diabetes treatment and management in an era where comprehensive healthcare is paramount. The recognition from the American Heart Association is but a stepping stone toward enhancing diabetes care further and reflecting the greater societal need for awareness and management of diabetes-related risks.