Capella 4900 Assessment 3 Assessing the Problem Technology Care Coordination and Community Resources Considerations

Name

Capella university

NURS-FPX 4900 Capstone project for Nursing

Prof. Name

Date

Assessing the Problem: Technology, Care Coordination, and Community Resources Considerations

In tackling chronic diseases like diabetes mellitus, it is crucial to utilize technology to facilitate ongoing monitoring and regular follow-ups. Moreover, care coordination cannot be overemphasized in managing diabetes, which requires interdisciplinary collaboration. Lastly, community resources play a significant role in managing type 2 diabetes as they help patients become more vigilant about their disease and promote mindfulness and health literacy. This assessment will further delve into the case of Jonathen, a 45-year-old middle school teacher who has been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, by taking the massive role of technology, care coordination, and community resources in managing his diabetes into consideration. 

Impact of Healthcare Technology on Type-2 Diabetes

The impact of healthcare technology on managing Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) for patients like Jonathan is profound, offering both advantages and disadvantages. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems, for instance, give Jonathan access to real-time blood glucose data to make appropriate adjustments to his diet, exercise, and medication. This technology enhances his self-management and offers peace of mind for Jonathan and his family by reducing the risk of severe hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic episodes (Lin et al., 2021). However, the cost of CGM devices and sensors and the learning curve associated with their use may present barriers for some patients, including Jonathan (Lin et al., 2021). Moreover, the accuracy and reliability of CGM systems can vary, necessitating careful calibration and interpretation by healthcare providers to ensure optimal outcomes.

Telemedicine also plays a significant role in T2D management, allowing Jonathan to remotely consult with his healthcare providers, track his symptoms and medication adherence, and access educational resources. These technologies enhance convenience and accessibility, particularly for patients like Jonathan, who may face barriers to in-person healthcare services due to distance or mobility issues (Agastiya et al., 2022). Nonetheless, digital health literacy and access to reliable internet connectivity can be limiting factors for some patients, potentially exacerbating healthcare disparities.

Capella 4900 Assessment 3 Assessing the Problem Technology Care Coordination and Community Resources Considerations

In professional practice, real-time blood glucose information is provided by Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices for patients like Jonathan with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). However, the initial cost of CGM devices and ongoing expenses for sensors can be barriers to access. Additionally, variations in accuracy and reliability require thorough patient education and provider oversight for optimal utilization. Telemedicine is increasingly used to facilitate remote consultations and education for T2D management, improving access to care for patients like Jonathan (Anderson et al., 2022). Yet, challenges such as limited internet access and digital literacy can impede its effectiveness. Addressing these barriers is crucial to harness the potential of telemedicine in enhancing patient outcomes and accessibility to care (Ju, 2020).

Care Coordination and Community Resources for Diabetes Care

Utilizing community resources and coordinating care is essential to resolve the complex challenges of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) for patients like Jonathan. Jonathan’s healthcare team can enhance his T2D management and overall well-being by effectively coordinating care among various healthcare providers and leveraging community resources. Evidence suggests that care coordination raises patient satisfaction, lowers healthcare costs, and improves patient outcomes (Wang et al., 2020). For Jonathan, care coordination involves collaboration between his primary care provider, endocrinologist, nurse practitioner, dietitian, and other specialists to create a thorough care plan suited to his particular requirements and preferences.

In professional practice, care coordination often involves regular communication among healthcare providers, shared decision-making with the patient, and electronic health records to ensure continuity of care. Jonathan’s healthcare team can work together to monitor his blood glucose levels, adjust his medication regimen, provide education on lifestyle modifications, and address any psychosocial factors impacting his T2D management. Furthermore, community resources, including support groups and diabetes education initiatives can complement Jonathan’s medical treatment by providing additional support and resources to manage his condition effectively (Powers et al., 2020). Despite the benefits of care coordination and community resources, several barriers may hinder their effective implementation.

Capella 4900 Assessment 3 Assessing the Problem Technology Care Coordination and Community Resources Considerations

These barriers include fragmented healthcare systems, limited access to specialty care or community resources, lack of communication between healthcare providers, and socioeconomic factors such as transportation or financial constraints (Campbell & Egede, 2019). For Jonathan, barriers to accessing community resources include limited availability of diabetes education programs in his area or challenges in affording healthy food options.

Overcoming these barriers requires proactive efforts from Jonathan’s healthcare team, including advocacy for expanded access to community resources, patient education on available services, and assistance navigating the healthcare system (Campbell & Egede, 2019). By addressing barriers and leveraging available resources, Jonathan’s healthcare team can empower him to manage his condition effectively, improve his quality of life, and reduce the burden of T2D on both him and his family.

State Board/ Nursing Standards/Organizational Measures for Diabetes

In considering state board nursing practice standards, such as those set forth by the American Nurses Association (ANA), alongside governmental policies like the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act, healthcare professionals gain a framework for ethical and professional practice in utilizing health technology, coordinating care, and leveraging community resources to address complex issues such as Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) management, exemplified by Jonathan’s case.

The ANA’s standards emphasize the importance of interprofessional cooperation, patient-centered treatment, and evidence-based practice. Nurses adhering to these standards ensure that Jonathan receives high-quality, holistic care, considering his unique needs, preferences, and cultural background. By incorporating health technology into Jonathan’s care, nurses can meet ANA’s standards for utilizing resources effectively to enhance patient outcomes while respecting patient autonomy and privacy (American Nurses Association, 2021).

Capella 4900 Assessment 3 Assessing the Problem Technology Care Coordination and Community Resources Considerations

Similarly, the HITECH Act was passed to encourage the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and other health information technologies. It provides guidelines for safeguarding patient information and promoting interoperability among healthcare systems. Nurses applying the HITECH Act to Jonathan’s case ensure that his health information is securely stored, accessed, and shared among his healthcare team, facilitating seamless care coordination and communication. Moreover, the Act encourages using health technology to improve healthcare quality, efficiency, and patient engagement, aligning with the ANA’s standards for evidence-based practice and patient-centered care (Chen et al., 2022).

The implications of applying these standards and policies to Jonathan’s T2D management are profound. Ethical professional practice requires nurses to use community resources, coordinate care, and negotiate health technology challenges while maintaining principles of beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice (Campbell & Egede, 2019). Nurses must ensure that their use of health technology respects patient confidentiality and privacy, maintains patient data integrity, and promotes equitable access to care for all patients, including Jonathan (American Nurses Association, 2021). Furthermore, nurses must advocate for policies and resources that support effective care coordination and address barriers to accessing community resources, such as limited availability or affordability. By advocating for policy changes, nurses can promote systemic improvements that benefit Jonathan and other individuals and populations affected by T2D.

Part Two

Documentation of Practicum Hours

 In the Capella Academic Portal Volunteer Experience Form, I meticulously recorded the two hours spent engaging with Jonathan and his family as part of my practicum experience. During this time, I focused on providing comprehensive care and support to Jonathan as he navigates the challenges of managing Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). To illustrate the concepts we were discussing, I used visual aids and practical examples, such as demonstrating how to read food labels and portion sizes. Jonathan actively participated in the discussion, asking questions and seeking clarification on various topics, demonstrating his commitment to taking control of his health.

As our conversation progressed, I introduced the idea of utilizing technology to manage diabetes, such as continuous glucose monitoring systems and mobile health apps. Jonathan expressed interest in exploring these options further, recognizing the potential benefits they could offer in tracking his blood glucose levels and making informed decisions about his health. Before concluding our session, I addressed any lingering questions or concerns Jonathan or his family had. I provided them with additional resources, such as contact information for local diabetes support groups and community organizations, to further assist them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the assessment highlights the critical role of technology, care coordination, and community resources in managing Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), exemplified by Jonathan’s case. Healthcare technology, such as Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems and telemedicine, offers advantages and challenges in enhancing T2D management. Care coordination among Jonathan’s healthcare team and community resource utilization is essential for developing a comprehensive care plan tailored to his needs.

State board nursing standards and organizational measures, such as those set by the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act, provide ethical and professional guidance in navigating these complexities. By adhering to these standards and advocating for policy changes, nurses can ensure equitable access to high-quality care for individuals like Jonathan with T2D.

References

Agastiya, I. M. C., Kurianto, E., Akalili, H., & Wicaksana, A. L. (2022). The impact of telehealth on self-management of patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review on interventional studies. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 16(5), 102485. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsx.2022.102485 

American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice. https://www.nursingworld.org/~4af71a/globalassets/catalog/book-toc/nssp3e-sample-chapter.pdf 

Anderson, A., O’Connell, S. S., Thomas, C., & Chimmanamada, R. (2022). Telehealth interventions to improve diabetes management among Black and Hispanic patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 9(6). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40615-021-01174-6 

Capella 4900 Assessment 3 Assessing the Problem Technology Care Coordination and Community Resources Considerations

Campbell, J. A., & Egede, L. E. (2019). Individual-, community-, and health system–level barriers to optimal type 2 diabetes care for inner-city African Americans: An integrative review and model development. The Diabetes Educator, 46(1), 014572171988933. https://doi.org/10.1177/0145721719889338 

Chen, J., Buchongo, P., Spencer, M. R. T., & Reynolds, C. F. (2022). An hit-supported care coordination framework for reducing structural racism and discrimination for patients with ADRD. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 30(11). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jagp.2022.04.010 

Ju, H.-H. (2020). Using telehealth for diabetes self-management in underserved populations. The Nurse Practitioner, 45(11), 26–33. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.npr.0000718492.44183.87 

Lin, R., Brown, F., James, S., Jones, J., & Ekinci, E. (2021). Continuous glucose monitoring: A review of the evidence in type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetic Medicine, 38(5). https://doi.org/10.1111/dme.14528 

Powers, M. A., Bardsley, J. K., Cypress, M., Funnell, M. M., Harms, D., Hess-Fischl, A., Hooks, B., Isaacs, D., Mandel, E. D., Maryniuk, M. D., Norton, A., Rinker, J., Siminerio, L. M., & Uelmen, S. (2020). Diabetes self-management education and support in adults with type 2 diabetes: A consensus report of the American Diabetes Association, the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of PAS, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and the American Pharmacists Association. Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, 60(6), 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.japh.2020.04.018 

Capella 4900 Assessment 3 Assessing the Problem Technology Care Coordination and Community Resources Considerations

Wang, Y., Min, J., Khuri, J., Xue, H., Xie, B., Kaminsky, L., & Cheskin, L. (2020). Effectiveness of mHealth interventions on diabetes and obesity treatment and management: A systematic examination of recent evidence . JMIR MHealth and UHealth, 8(4). https://doi.org/10.2196/15400