The article delves into the management of long-term health conditions, specifically focusing on type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which collectively have a significant impact globally. The quality management of these conditions is crucial to prevent health deterioration, particularly for individuals with intellectual disabilities in residential care settings. Complete and accurate recording of disease management is essential for effective long-term health condition monitoring.

The study conducted a retrospective analysis of medical record data from a large Dutch long-term care provider, specifically examining disease management quality indicators for intellectually disabled adults with long-term conditions over an 18-month period from July 2020 to December 2021. The study assessed the occurrence of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and COPD using specific diagnostic codes. The observed consultation rates were compared to the baseline number of consultations in primary care, with the results presented in median with interquartile range.

The findings revealed that type 2 diabetes mellitus was the most prevalent long-term condition (8.6%), followed by cardiovascular disease (5.8%) and COPD (3.0%). Patients with these conditions had fewer consultations in 2021 than the Dutch baseline. Notably, lifestyle discussions were often not accurately recorded. While disease monitoring quality indicators were more prevalent, they were recorded at a lower frequency than expected.

The study sheds light on the need for improved recording and monitoring of disease management in residential care for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The findings underscore the importance of accurate record-keeping to ensure comprehensive and effective long-term condition management. Additionally, the study highlights the disparities in disease management and healthcare access, particularly in the context of intellectual disability and long-term care.

This research contributes valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for enhancing disease management and care quality for individuals with intellectual disabilities in residential care, emphasizing the importance of thorough and accurate recording practices to facilitate effective monitoring and management of long-term health conditions.

Sources

Records of quality indicators for management of long‐term health conditions of patients with intellectual disabilities in Dutch residential care - Wiley Online LibraryExploring patient safety outcomes for people with learning disabilities in acute hospital settings: a scoping review | BMJ OpenMeasurable Indicators of CRPD for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities within the Quality of Life Framework - NCBIAll-cause and cause-specific mortality among people with and without intellectual disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Netherlands: a population-based cohort studyQuality indicators for community care for older people: A systematic review - PMC - NCBIImproving the quality of care in nursing home organizations with urgent quality issues: design and effectiveness of a Dutch government-funded support programme

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