The potential impact of diabetes on the Arizona Long Term Care System is of significant concern to AHCCCS. Based on this and previous studies conducted by AHCCCS, the prevalence of diabetes among ALTCS members is approximately 20 percent. With the number of Arizonans age 65 and older increasing 40 percent in the last decade, the proportion of ALTCS members with diabetes is likely to increase as well.

While this project measured whether members received a minimum of one Hb A1c test annually according to HEDIS criteria, clinical practice guidelines recommend Hb A1c testing at least twice a year for patients who have stable glycemic control and quarterly for patients who are not meeting glycemic goals. To further improve care and health outcomes for members with diabetes, Contractors should continue to focus on ensuring that members with diabetes receive Hb A1c tests and other preventive-care services at the recommended intervals.