A recent study led by researchers at UF Diabetes Institute including members of GCDTR evaluated Project ECHO Diabetes across Federally Qualified Health Centers in California and Florida, using a stepped-wedge design. The findings are compelling: • HbA1c control: Patients with HbA1c >9% decreased from 31.7% to 26.7% (Type 1) and 24.0% to 18.9% (Type 2) over six months • Cost savings: Estimated first-year per-patient savings are ~$3,206; total savings surpassed $5 million, vastly outpacing the $513,257 investment • Program model: Bi-monthly tele-education, real-time clinical support, and provider resources showed clear ROI Implications: Project ECHO’s scalable model empowers primary care providers to deliver high-value diabetes management.
The economic and health benefits justify broader adoption, especially in underserved communities. Read more: lnkd.in/gxPZDUWV
