NorthShore University HealthSystem

Increasing Access to Diabetes Care

For the medically underserved population of Lake County, a collaborative effort between NorthShore University HealthSystem and the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center (LCHD/CHC) provides greater access to comprehensive diabetes care.

NorthShore University HealthSystem

The joint initiative, Be Well-Lake County, has offered diabetes management for nearly 1,200 patients since it launched in 2009. Services include:

  • Assistance with medication and testing supplies;
  • Subspecialty care access from NorthShore University HealthSystem physicians;
  • On-site Hemoglobin A1c testing; and
  • Diabetes self-management education classes and support group.

Be Well also supports a community garden in North Chicago where patients plant and harvest vegetables and benefit from free produce throughout the season.

NorthShore has made a significant financial and organizational commitment to Be Well-Lake County, part of the system’s ongoing efforts to help reduce health disparities in the community. NorthShore researchers are monitoring the impact and success of the program. In 2017:

  • The percentage of patients with LDL cholesterol levels less than 100 increased to 59% at last annual visit from 42% at baseline;
  • 32% of patients have a Hemoglobin A1c less than or equal to 9, down from 45% at baseline; and
  • 46% of patients have blood pressure less than 130/80 at last annual visit compared to 41% at baseline.