There are many complications associated with diabetes. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, non-traumatic amputation, and end-stage kidney disease. Diabetes also increases the chance of heart attack and stroke. These complications may be prevented, but only if long-term lifestyle changes are made.
We know how hard making these changes can be, so trained healthcare staff is available to help you. Our staff will help you make changes in meal planning, exercise, blood glucose monitoring and medication.
What is the goal of Optima Health’s Diabetes Disease Management Program?
Our goal is to empower you to manage your disease through education, support and resources. We encourage you to work with you doctor to develop, and stick to, an effective diabetes management plan to keep your diabetes under control.
Who is allowed to participate in Optima Health’s Diabetes Disease Management Program?
Any Optima Health Plan member with diabetes.
How does Optima Health identify a member as having diabetes?
Optima Health is notified when a plan member is treated for diabetes through claims filed by the treating doctor or facility.
What happens after an Optima Health Plan member is identified as having diabetes?
Once a member is identified as having diabetes, they may be contacted by one of the Health Care ServicesTeam to discuss their needs and concerns.
Who is part of the Diabetes Disease Management Team?
The Diabetes Management Team is made up of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and patient service coordinators. This team will work with you to promote healthy behaviors, provide education and suggestions serve as a support system, and answer your questions.
My hospital offers a diabetes education program. May I attend?
Of course. You may attend any hospital based diabetes education program as long as it is hosted by a hospital that participates with Optima Health. This is a covered benefit under most Optima Health policies. If you are not sure about your particular benefit, or if a hospital is participating, simply call Member Services using the number on your insurance card.
You do not need an authorization for attending diabetes classes, but some facilities require a doctor’s referral. Call the facility for details about their requirements.
What about diabetes supplies?
Strips, lancets, meters, control solutions and insulin pump supplies are covered under most Optima Health policies.
Our preferred vendor for diabetes supplies is Liberty and this will probably be the most cost effective way to get your supplies. To begin receiving diabetes supplies from Liberty, you may call 1-866-846-9361 (toll free). They will verify the supplies needed with your doctor, and the supplies will be delivered to your home.
Most members have a copay for diabetes supplies. If you are unsure of your copay for diabetes supplies, please call the Member Services number on your card.
What if I have not been contacted by the Diabetes Disease Management Program, but would like to participate?
If you would like to participate in Optima Health’s Diabetes Disease Management Program, please call Member Services using the number on your insurance card.