Comparative Control of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Between Primary Care Center and Tertiary Care Hospital in A Thai Rural Area

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) significantly contributes to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This study aims to evaluate diabetes control and treatment outcomes in individuals treated at primary healthcare centers and a tertiary care hospital in rural Thailand.Methods: Data from 27,266 type 2 diabetes patients receiving care in Sakon Nakhon province in 2023 were analyzed. Participants’ treatment outcomes, including blood sugar, blood pressure control, and screening rates, were compared across urban community health centers, subdistrict health-promoting hospitals, and a tertiary care hospital.Results: Primary care settings demonstrated better management of central obesity and renal screening compared to tertiary care. However, blood sugar and blood pressure control rates were suboptimal across all settings, and HbA1c testing frequency remained low. Mortality rates did not differ significantly between settings.Conclusion: While diabetes management in primary and tertiary care showed similarities, primary care settings were more effective in managing BMI and renal screening. These findings highlight the importance of reinforcing diabetes management strategies, particularly in primary care, to enhance outcomes.