If not managed correctly, diabetes can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, infections and amputations. 

According to Jon West, a registered nurse and lead clinical care manager at IEHP, the only way to know members are on track with managing their diabetes is to monitor their blood sugar. 

The technology to help people keep an eye on those numbers exists: Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs). But IEHP members in Mecca, California, an unincorporated town in the Coachella Valley, ran into a CGM barrier. 

That’s when those Glucose Busters swooped in, working with medical office staff on CGM requests and showing them how to file the claims. 

Dr. David Chang and the “Busters” also taught members how diets can adversely affect their average blood glucose (sugar) levels, known as an A1C number. 

IEHP member, Susana D. inspired the quest for closing the CGM gap in the Low Desert region, resulting in a series of positive ripple effects, including her own. 

Through this journey, Susana busted her A1C numbers from 10.1 to 8.4! 

Want to take control of your diabetes? Check out IEHP’s resources today. https://www.iehp.org/en/learning-center/managing-my-health/managing-my-illness/diabetes