2004 (Jan) 3rd National Conference on Diabetes and Aboriginal Peoples, National Aboriginal Diabetes Association (NADA), poster presentation by BRAID Research

1. Mobile Diabetes Screening Initiative Summary
Alberta Diabetes Strategy 2003: “…provide resources for screening
for diabetes and it’s complications in aboriginal off reserve and
remote Alberta communities”
The MDSI team uses mobile clinics to visit Metis Settlements and
other remote communities providing service to consenting
individuals wishing to be screened for diabetes, as well as those
individuals with known diabetes.
MDSI operates in compliance with privacy legislation.
In the first six weeks, 180 clients have been seen.
Approximately 75% had no previous diagnosis of diabetes, 25%
were previously known to have diabetes.
Preliminary analysis shows >85% of clients screened for diabetes
had significant risk for the disease.
Conclusion
The burden of diabetes is greater in aboriginals and those
who are geographically and socio-economically
disadvantaged.
The Alberta Diabetes Strategy understands the concern and
over the next 10 years will take the necessary steps to
address this issue.
With ongoing personal contact and support, the MDSI team
will provide service to meet this need.
The MDSI Team Community Participation
Clients wishing to be screened for diabetes are tested using
portable technology and a pre-specified protocol.
Daily Quality Assurance testing is performed.
• Registered Nurse – CDE
• Dietitian / Nutritionist
• RN / LPN
• Retinal photographer
• Cultural facilitator
• Local community assistants
- Cree interpretation available
• Other essential team members
coordinate in Edmonton
ALL clients’ results are discussed, questions answered and personal results
counseling provided by the Certified Diabetes Educator, Nurse and/or Nutritionist.
Follow-up is coordinated as necessary
Clients with known diabetes have retinal photography and lab
testing for A1c, lipids and microalbuminuria.
Physician Involvement
• Voluntary consent
• Height, Weight, BMI,
Blood Pressure
• Blood tests
• Urine tests
Screening Procedure
• Local physicians are informed through
correspondence
• Clients are encouraged to have follow-up
appointments with their physician and/or
community nurse
• All retinal photographs are reviewed and graded
by an ophthalmologist. Follow-up is coordinated
as necessary.
• Community participation with MDSI is high
• The communities are working well with the
team to enroll clients and the team’s arrival is
met with anticipation.
Screening for Diabetes and it’s complications as part of the
Alberta Diabetes Strategy
Ellen Toth, Dawn Friesen, Phil Burke, Terri Gammer
University of Alberta and Alberta Health and Wellness