The COORDINATE-Diabetes trial has demonstrated significant success in enhancing the implementation of evidence-based therapies for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The findings, presented at the 22nd Annual World Congress Insulin Resistance Diabetes & Cardiovascular Disease (WCIRDC), highlight the importance of proactive strategies in cardiology clinics to improve treatment adherence and patient outcomes.
Improving Treatment Adherence in High-Risk Patients
Jennifer B. Green, MD, an endocrinologist and clinical trialist at Duke University Medical Center, emphasized the trial's impact on the adoption of essential therapies, including high-intensity statins, ACE/ARB inhibitors, and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors or glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. The COORDINATE-Diabetes trial specifically targeted cardiology clinics, revealing a significant gap where only 3-4% of patients were initially receiving all the guideline-recommended treatments. The intervention led to notable improvements in adherence, underscoring the potential for targeted interventions to improve patient care.
Expanding Benefits of GLP-1 and SGLT2 Inhibitors
Dr. Green also reflected on the evolving understanding of therapies like GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors. Beyond their established benefits in glucose and weight management, these agents are now recognized for providing substantial cardiovascular and kidney-related benefits. This broader impact reinforces the importance of staying updated with the latest evidence and implementing it into clinical practice to optimize patient outcomes. "I am satisfied knowing that my prescribing practices are delivering broader benefits than initially expected," Green stated.
The Role of Continuing Medical Education
Continuing medical education plays a crucial role in ensuring that clinicians remain informed about the latest management strategies, particularly in managing cardio-renal complications in diabetes. Conferences like WCIRDC facilitate the dissemination of new research and guidelines, enabling healthcare professionals to integrate evidence-based practices into their daily routines. The COORDINATE-Diabetes trial serves as a model for how targeted interventions and ongoing education can collectively improve the care of high-risk patients with T2D and ASCVD.
