Office-GAP Impact Program | Michigan State University

The implementation of an outpatient program

AUGUST 10, 2020

With funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Dr. Olomu and her co-investigators are testing the implementation of an outpatient program “The Office Guidelines Applied in Practice" (Office-GAP) and Way2Health in Federally Qualified Health Care Centers (FQHCs) in Michigan. The Office-GAP Program is designed to improve care and health outcomes for cardiovascular and diabetic patients in FQHCs and community health centers.

(photo credit - Paul Phipps)

Office-GAP Program

Office-GAP is a Patient Activation Intervention Program that includes: 1) Group visit 2) Physician training for patient activation, and 3) Decision support checklist used in real time in the office. Patients will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Patients in Groups 1 or 2 will attend: 1) one scheduled group visit, (90-120 min; 4-6 patients) conducted by the PI/RAs 2)two follow-up visits with their primary care providers in 1 month, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after the group visit. The group visit is a shared decision-making (SDM) activation session wherein patients learn self-management behaviors, medication use, communication skills, and use of decision support tools. The Office-GAP Checklist is a one-page checklist that outlines all evidence-based medications for prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in DM patients. It is an in-consultation decision support tool that helps engage the patient and physician in initiating and enhancing a SDM process via discussion of medication and secondary prevention/lifestyle changes.

Patients Corner

Patient's Corner is a space dedicated to empowering, educating, and supporting those living with diabetes and at risk of heart disease. You’ll find the latest research insights, practical tips, and motivational stories to help you manage your health. Understanding that high blood sugar can damage blood vessels and increase heart disease risk is vital. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, such as a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with regular physical activity, can make a significant difference. Medication adherence and regular monitoring of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol are essential. Additionally, managing stress through mindfulness, yoga, or nature walks can benefit your overall well-being. Our website This page offers up-to-date information from leading experts, sharing new treatments and lifestyle interventions. Explore our resources and engage with our community to achieve better health and a future free from the burdens of diabetes and heart disease.

Way2Health Program

Way2Health is a nationally recognized, widely disseminated, effective diabetes management tool. It is a text-based DM self-management program. Way2Health engages patients in two ways: 1) Patients receive daily Way2Health messages appropriate to their diagnosis and medications (e.g. BP, blood glucose, medication) and appointment reminders throughout the study. They also receive informational and educational texts. 2) Patients respond to prompts and contact their providers’ office throughout the study via texting. Patients receive a 15-week customized program of text messages starting after the group visit. Thereafter, they will receive diabetic modules that follow the standard for diabetes education for the rest of the 12 months. Modules differ each month. Patients determine the maximum number of messages to receive per day (1-3). Patients in group 1 and 2 will use Way2Health. Office-GAP is for group 1 patients only.

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Research Participants

Attention Patients - Do you have Diabetes?

Michigan State University and your Clinic are testing an educational program to help reduce cardiovascular risk in T2 diabetic patients. Knowing more about how to take care of your diabetes and your heart and taking the right medication can help you prevent a heart attack. It only requires a one time group visit, and 5 regular diabetic follow up visits with your doctor. Participants are eligible to earn $150 up to $240 for participation. Patients at select Alcona Health Centers, Great Lakes Bay Health Centers and Ingham County Health Department clinics are eligible to participate in this study. Inquire at your clinic to see if they are signed up with Office-GAP!