The October meeting of the Oklahoma Diabetes Caucus was held Thursday Oct 5 at the State Capitol Building room 419C. These are the highlights of the meeting.
Charlene Wallace of the American Diabetes Association proposed that the Caucus develop an engagement and marketing plan. An Aim statement was developed by the Caucus: to increase accessibility and support of diabetes recognition and self-management programs for all Oklahomans with prediabetes and diabetes. A goal was developed: improve the quality of life through support and resources for all persons with diabetes. There were those that volunteered to work on the plan and report back to the Caucus.
Senator Simpson acknowledged the work of Sarah Yount and Aimee Henderson in creating the PowerPoint for the interim study that took place Oct 10. The format of the interim study is to present the problem, then offer solutions. Sarah Yount reviewed the interim study PowerPoint. Some suggested that the ranking of Oklahoma be compared to the 2nd place Kentucky ranking which is considerably less thank Oklahoma's. There was a 226.7% increase in diabetes prevalence from 1995 to 2010. An explanation was given by OHCA staff about how the numbers were compiled for prediabetes. The group considered the lack of participation in DSME in Oklahoma. Physician referral and high deductibles were some of the barriers named. It was related that legislators could also support the work fo the Caucus by encouraging media coverage in their district.
The November Diabetes Caucus meeting scheduled for Nov 2 was canceled due to the length of the Legislative Special Session but will return in December.