Delivering real results: a look at positive clinical outcomes through data and member stories

Diabetes is a difficult and often misunderstood disease. It is a life-changing diagnosis and the obstacles that come with it can seem overwhelming. It is costly, time consuming, and often a burden on mental health.??

It is a multifaceted disease that requires a multifaceted approach to care.??

There is no hack, no quick fix, no diet or medication that can alone deliver improved care results long term. Because, in the long-term, it is as important to avoid cardiovascular and neurological complications as keeping diabetes in check. True and effective diabetes management therefore requires behavior and lifestyle change, which result in sustainable long-term comprehensive health outcomes.?

To some, behavior and lifestyle change might seem daunting, even though they know it works. We prove time and time again that it works. With the right data-driven approach we can – and we do –make it easier for individuals to pursue their journey to health.?

Our diabetes management solution leverages billions of data points—including individuals’ health metrics, behavioral patterns, preferences and more—to trigger timely, actionable feedback that inspires better health decisions. Our health coaches help reinforce good habits in ways that fit our members’ lives.??

We know this approach works because we see it deliver real results. Our member, Howie, is living proof of the sustained and significant impact of our program.??

Howie learned he had diabetes six years ago when a physician found his blood sugar was around 450 mg/dL (a normal blood sugar range is between 70 and 100 mg/dL). His doctor at the time put him on medication and insulin injections, and he also sought the help of a dietician.??

Even so, managing the disease proved to be difficult and he never really felt he had a good handle on it. Not to mention, the costs of managing the disease started to add up quickly. There were the co-pays for the visits with dieticians, the costs to refill test strips and more.??

It wasn’t until Howie’s employer sent out an email about Teladoc Health that he realized that he may get just the help and guidance he needs. Soon after connecting with a Teladoc Health coach and registered dietician, Howie began to establish a rapport, comfort and trust with his care team and was able to create a personalized care plan that focused on long-term sustainable goals to help him manage his health.???

His results since starting the program speak for themselves:??

• Today, Howie’s A1c is at 5.7. That is a 55% reduction in A1c from its peak of 12.7. That is a hugely significant reduction, and his doctors are thrilled.??
• Following his dietician’s diet and exercise advice, Howie has lost a total of 30 pounds. He receives individualized diet and exercise advice and has immediate access to a library of recipes, substitutions, and portion sizes. His level of physical activity has also greatly improved – last summer he was barely able to walk 3.5 MPH on the treadmill. Today, he can run a base speed of 6 MPH.??
• In addition to clinical improvements, there is the improved peace of mind that comes with Teladoc Health’s program: if Howie’s blood glucose is ever outside of his target range, a diabetes response specialist is always on call to check on him.?
• Teladoc Health is free to Howie through his employer, which allows him to save money while managing this disease. There are no more co-pays for every visit, and he receives unlimited test strips through the program.?

Howie credits small, sustainable changes over time to his success today. He believes that without the more frequent access to coaches, without the targeted information and health tips, without the guidance from a dedicated care team every single step of the way, he wouldn’t have been equipped to make the positive changes that make him better.??

Howie’s story is testament that our program delivers real results. And we are so confident in our ability to improve outcomes and reduce costs that we offer all chronic condition programs with full program fees at risk. We hold ourselves accountable to the clinical metrics that matter, and that shows through our members, like Howie.??

For more information on Teladoc Health’s diabetes management program, visit https://www.teladochealth.com/expert-care/condition-management/diabetes.????