Assessment Reveals Many Diabetes Performance Measures Are Insufficient

A comprehensive review conducted by the American College of Physicians (ACP) has highlighted significant gaps in current performance measures used for managing diabetes in adults. Out of 14 relevant metrics, only four meet the stringent standards for appropriate use, supported by high-quality evidence, and scientific validity. This analysis, published in the >Annals of Internal Medicine, underscores the need for improved metrics that effectively reflect quality care.

Diabetes remains a prevalent chronic condition in the United States, comprising both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. These conditions are leading causes of death and disability, impacting public health substantially. Proper screening, management, and complication prevention are essential to mitigate adverse outcomes.

The ACP Performance Measurement Committee (PMC) evaluated existing measures focusing on diabetes screening, glycemic control, monitoring of associated conditions, and therapeutic interventions. The review advocates for continued emphasis on kidney health assessment, HbA1c level management, regular eye examinations, and the use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs when appropriate.

Further, ACP introduced a new concept aimed at increasing the prescription of newer pharmacological agents for eligible patients, encouraging development and testing of promising performance measures. The goal is to foster measures that genuinely improve health outcomes for individuals with diabetes.

Jason M. Goldman, President of the ACP, emphasized the importance of meaningful performance measurement in internal medicine, stating that unnecessary or low-value metrics create administrative burdens without benefiting patient care. The review aligns with recent clinical guidelines published by ACP in 2024, which provide recommendations on recent pharmacologic advances in managing type 2 diabetes.

This analysis serves as a call to action for healthcare providers and policymakers to refine performance metrics, ensuring they promote effective, evidence-based practices that enhance patient outcomes.

For further details, refer to the original publication: Amir Qaseem et al, "Quality Indicators for Diabetes in Adults: A Review of Performance Measures by the American College of Physicians," in the Annals of Internal Medicine (2025). Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-diabetes-inadequate.html