Disease management program for type 1 diabetes in Germany
Disease management programs (DMPs) are structured treatment programs that aim to improve the management of chronic illnesses. They include regular doctor’s appointments with consultations and check-ups, as well as patient education and help setting up other types of support. Doctors who provide treatment as part of a DMP have to fulfill certain requirements and follow defined quality standards.
The disease management program for type 1 diabetes in Germany includes the following:
- Development of an individual treatment plan together with the doctor
- Patient education programs
- Medical check-ups
- Advice for smokers
- Structured review of medications
- The prevention and treatment of accompanying diseases and consequences of diabetes
The treatment offered in DMPs is usually carried out by various doctors who are specialized in different areas. It is coordinated by a diabetes specialist (diabetologist), or sometimes by the person’s family doctor. His or her job will include things like planning the treatment, referring the patient to other specialists, and making arrangements for rehabilitation treatment.