MemorialCare's Medical Group and Independent Physicians have earned the American Heart Association’s Gold Achievement Award for managing cardiovascular risk in diabetes patients, highlighting their commitment to improving health outcomes.
MemorialCare's Medical Group and Independent Physicians have been nationally recognized by the American Heart Association for their outstanding care of patients with Type 2 diabetes. This achievement is a testament to their dedication to reducing heart disease and stroke risks among those living with diabetes.
The recognition comes in the form of the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes Gold Achievement Award, which acknowledges clinical excellence in managing cardiovascular risk factors associated with diabetes. MemorialCare's commitment to high-quality care has been recognized through impressive outcomes such as strong blood sugar (HbA1c) management and achievement of blood pressure targets.
Elizabeth Mahler, MD, Chief Medical Officer at MemorialCare Medical Foundation, emphasized the importance of their work: "Together with our physicians, our goal is to make diabetes care practical and personal. We aim to help patients manage their condition every day so they can lead healthier lives and avoid hospitalization."
According to the American Heart Association, approximately 29.3 million adults in the United States have been diagnosed with diabetes, while an additional 9.7 million are estimated to be living with undiagnosed diabetes. For individuals with Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death and is a major contributor to heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure.
A survey by The Harris Poll revealed that only half of people aged 45 and older with Type 2 diabetes are aware of their increased risk for heart attacks or strokes. Jessica Kwon, Vice President of Population Health at MemorialCare Medical Foundation, highlighted the collaborative efforts of MemorialCare's care teams: "The expertise, dedication, and commitment of our care teams made this achievement possible."
MemorialCare Medical Foundation’s ACTIVE Diabetes Program plays a crucial role in supporting patients with poorly controlled diabetes. This inter-disciplinary team includes pharmacists, social workers, and dietitians who work closely with patients to understand their condition better and make necessary lifestyle changes.
The American Heart Association's Target: Type 2 Diabetes program supports physicians and care teams by providing access to the latest research, guideline-based tools, and resources for managing cardiovascular and diabetes risks. MemorialCare Medical Group is part of the not-for-profit integrated healthcare system, MemorialCare, which includes over 1,700 specialists and more than 150 primary care physicians.
Both MemorialCare Medical Group and Independent Physicians have received high ratings in Medicare Advantage programs and been recognized as top medical groups by the Orange County Register. This national recognition underscores their commitment to improving health outcomes for patients with diabetes and reducing cardiovascular risks associated with the condition.
