The Hawaii Medical Service Association's diabetes disease- management program for more than 40,000 residents has received full accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance. HMSA’s diabetes
program wins praiseStar-Bulletin staff
HMSA launched the program two years ago with American Healthways, one of the nation's leading disease-management organizations.
It reaches nearly half of the state's diabetes population and is improving health outcomes, HMSA officials said yesterday in announcing the accreditation at the state Capitol.
House and Senate leaders praised the program, which started with 26,000 participants and has grown 54 percent.
The Legislature two years ago passed a bill to ensure access to diabetes services and education for Hawaii residents, said Senate President Robert Bunda (D, Wahiawa-Haleiwa-North Shore).
"HMSA's participation in this process and their commitment to promoting diabetes awareness is an example of the Legislature and the private sector working together to improve the health and well-being of our citizens," Bunda said.
House Speaker Calvin Say (D, Palolo Valley-Kaimuki), said HMSA worked with legislators to pass the law "and has since exceeded expectations by creating a nationally recognized, first-rate diabetes-management program.
"The success of the law and HMSA's program is a win-win for our community."
Bob Hiam, HMSA president and chief executive officer, said the program is educating members about diabetes and encouraging healthier lifestyles.
"In short," he said, "we're seeing more and more people taking personal responsibility for their health and, as a result, they are enjoying life more."
American Healthways' disease-management programs are the only ones in the United States to be recognized by the national accrediting agency, HMSA said.
The Johns Hopkins Outcomes Verification Program also announced in May that it had reviewed and approved the Nashville-based company's diabetes-enhancement programs.