Combining Models of Interprofessional Coordination in Diabetic Care

Introduction The DEW (Diabetes Education and Wellness) Clinic is an interprofessional, student-led initiative that provides diabetes care through both in-person and telehealth formats. This model offers a unique platform to explore the effectiveness of interdisciplinary collaboration while enhancing student learning and addressing patient care needs in a community-based setting. Methods This article synthesizes findings from three mixed-methods studies conducted between 2022 and 2024. Study 1 evaluated the effectiveness of hybrid (telehealth and in-person) care delivery in diabetes management. Study 2 assessed patient satisfaction, perceived care quality, and outcomes. Study 3 explored student and faculty experiences in the clinic through surveys and focus groups. Participants included adult patients with diabetes, student providers from medicine, pharmacy, etc., and interprofessional faculty mentors. Results The hybrid care model was found to improve access and continuity of care for patients with diabetes, with telehealth appointments providing flexibility and convenience. Patients reported high satisfaction, particularly noting the personalized education and supportive interprofessional approach. Students described enhanced confidence, communication skills, and understanding of interprofessional roles. Faculty mentors valued the opportunity to guide learners in real-time collaborative care. Across all studies, the interprofessional model was viewed as effective in promoting both high-quality patient care and meaningful educational experiences. Conclusion The DEW Clinic exemplifies a scalable, interprofessional approach to chronic disease management that benefits both learners and patients. Integrating telehealth with in-person services enhances accessibility and patient engagement while offering a dynamic educational environment for health professions students. These findings support the continued development and replication of similar interprofessional models in community-based chronic care settings.