Rural, Minority Americans Have Amputations and Die More Frequently from Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Black patients who live in rural areas are much more likely to die or have an amputation as a result of a diabetic foot ulcer. Individuals who receive optimal medical therapy (OMT) have one third as many amputations and a dramatic reduction in mortality. This major disparity can be reduced now. Nurse practitioner faculty in teaching institutions can serve as a hub resource with the analytic and population health support. Independent nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and pharmacists can man the local care teams in rural areas to consistently produce OMT and avoid foot ulcer formation. Telemedicine with home pressure and glucose measurements can extend the entire system. We can reduce this disparity now. Let’s get started.