Assessment of healthcare utilization in diabetes patients according to foot risk level

Abstract

Aims: To quantify healthcare service utilization over the past two years according to the foot risk level in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Methodology: A descriptive observational study was conducted in a Primary Care Nursing consultation, evaluating patients with T2DM through examination and collection of sociodemographic and clinical data. Results: A total of 153 patients were included. The prevalence of underdiagnosis was 71.2 % for neuropathy and 59.5 % for peripheral arterial disease. Patients with a high foot risk level had more consultations in PC Nursing for foot-related issues (2022 y 2023; p=<0.001). The number of hospitalization days in 2022 was also higher in patients with a high foot risk. Patients with diagnosed neuropathy consistently utilized healthcare services more frequently than those with undiagnosed or no neuropathy across most categories. Conclusion: Patients with a high foot risk level consume more healthcare resources. Early detection and management of diabetic foot is crucial to avoid underdiagnosis, optimize resource use, and prevent serious complications.