New diabetes support system under review

A proposed support system for type 2 diabetes patients, involving pharmacists, has been under development for nearly a year. The Social Security Agency created the tools for this initiative and submitted them to the High Authority for Health (HAS) for evaluation this summer.

Consultation framework outlined

The system is designed for adults who have been on diabetes medication for at least six months. Its goal is to improve patients’ understanding of their condition, ensure they follow their treatment, and raise awareness about comprehensive care.

Structure of the consultations

The support system includes three consultations. The first is an initial assessment to gather general information and identify priorities. The other two are thematic, chosen from seven topics such as understanding the disease, treatment knowledge, adherence, and physical activity.

Tools for pharmacist consultations

Pharmacists must use specific tools developed by the Social Security Agency and its partners. These tools are modeled after existing pharmaceutical consultation frameworks and include a patient support guide and a follow-up sheet for recording exchanges with patients.

HAS approves but requests changes

The HAS validated the overall framework of the proposed system but requested several revisions based on input from various stakeholders. It emphasized the need to cover all seven themes across the three consultations, rather than just two.

Distinguishing pharmacist roles

The HAS recommended clearly separating tasks that fall within pharmacists’ expertise from those typically handled by other health professionals. This includes avoiding tasks like checking for skin conditions or sleep apnea, which are outside a pharmacist’s typical scope.

Language and mental health considerations

The authority suggested using a more collaborative language, such as replacing "adherence" with "adherence to treatment." It also highlighted the importance of addressing patients’ mental health, including screening for anxiety and depression linked to diabetes and considering the impact on their work or living conditions.

Next steps and timeline

Once the revised documents are finalized, the pharmaceutical unions and the Social Security Agency must determine how to compensate pharmacists for these services. The HAS expects the system to be operational in pharmacies by early 2027.