A Medical Student–Run Initiative to Improve Glycemic Control in Prediabetic and Type 2 Diabetic Patients at Free Clinics in South Carolina

Introduction and Objective: Medical Students Making Change (MSMC) is a student-led organization at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine that collaborates with local free medical clinics to improve patient control of T2DM. South Carolina’s adult population has a high rate of diabetes (13.2%) and diabetes-related complications, including the highest rate of foot amputations. This project aims to promote prevention strategies for T2DM within underserved areas. Methods: Student volunteers review HbA1c values to screen and enroll patients that are ≥ 18 years old with diagnosed T2DM or prediabetes. Patients enrolled receive biweekly counseling calls to discuss diet, exercise, and barriers to healthcare, as well as an HbA1c check every 3 months. Patients who meet criteria for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) are given a CGM and monitored by an endocrinologist. Results: The mean initial HbA1c value for participants (n = 71) was 9.63%. With our lifestyle and educational strategies, HbA1c levels decreased by an average of 0.64% (p=0.2230 with 95% CI -0.427 to 1.705). Average blood glucose decreased from 154 mg/dL to 148 mg/dL in patients utilizing the CGM (p=0.2361 with 95% CI -7.21 to 19.71). Conclusion: These promising data indicate that patient education and access to resources can improve T2DM management in underserved areas. Disclosure: B. Franz: None. M.E. Becker: None. A. Lunt: None. K. Borglum: None. C.A. Hensing: None. M. Hotchkin: None. S. Litzenberger: None. S. Varanasi: None. L.P. Reagan: None. D. Keen: None. Funding: SC Physicians Care Charity, Free Diabetes SC