PEDIATRICS Vol. 60 No. 4 October 1977, pp. 492-498
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Regional Services for Children and Youth With Diabetes

Beverly Giordano, R.N., Arlan L. Rosenbloom, M.D., Debbie Heller, F. Thomas Weber, M.D., Ronald Gonzalez, M.D. and Ante Grgic, M.D.

From the North-Central Florida Regional Diabetes Program and the Division of Genetics, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville.

A regional diabetes program for children and youth comprising outreach clinics, frequent routine and emergency telephone contact, and a camping program was developed within the State Children's Medical Services (Crippled Children's) Program. The pediatric nurse specialist in diabetes served as the pivotal professional in the education and supervision of patients. Cost benefit was calculated from estimated hospital days prevented based on average length of admissions at diagnosis (14 days) and hospital days in the year prior to referral of those with established diabetes. During the first year 369 hospital days were prevented, for an estimated savings of $65,000; the second year 547 hospital days were avoided, a value of $96,000. Total annual program costs to the state and private patients (including camp fees) were $36,000. Although hospital costs are an apparent and useful reference to justify funding, the main value of the program must be in the prevention of secondary physical and emotional disability. This requires continuous commitment and availability of persons who know the patient and family, who can interpret information related to metabolic control of diabetes, and who are able to influence the family and community to respond appropriately to the youngster's needs.

Key Words: DIABETES MELLITUS • REGIONAL DIABETES PROGRAM • NURSE SPECIALIST • COST BENEFIT

Received for publication Jan 6, 1977; Accepted Mar 14, 1977.




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