A disease management programme for patients with diabetes mellitus is associated with improved quality of care within existing budgets

Aim To assess the impact of a disease management programme for patients with diabetes mellitus (Type 1 and Type 2) on cost‐effectiveness, quality of life and patient self‐management. By organizing care in accordance with the principles of disease management, it is aimed to increase quality of care within existing budgets. Methods Single‐group, pre‐post design with 2‐year follow‐up in 473 patients. Results Substantial significant improvements in glycaemic control, health‐related quality of life (HRQL) and patient self‐management were found. No significant changes were detected in total costs of care. The probability that the disease management programme is cost‐effective compared with usual care amounts to 74%, expressed in an average saving of 117 per additional life year at 5% improved HRQL. Conclusion Introduction of a disease management programme for patients with diabetes is associated with improved intermediate outcomes within existing budgets. Further research should focus on long‐term cost‐effectiveness, including diabetic complications and mortality, in a controlled setting or by using decision‐analytic modelling techniques.