HAP launches Diabetes Care Connection, a program that helped 80% of pilot participants reduce A1C levels

TROY, Mich.- Health Alliance Plan (HAP) today announced the launch of Diabetes Care Connection (DCC), a diabetes management program powered by Populance, the population health services subsidiary of Henry Ford Health and a leader in care management for people with chronic conditions. The program is designed to meet members wherever they are in their diabetes journey, offering education, expert guidance and tools that promote lasting health improvements.

DCC was first piloted with patients at Henry Ford Health, where it delivered a measurable, sustained impact. 80% of participants reduced their A1C levels by an average of 1.6% over 18 months, indicating clear proof that DCC helps members take control and stay on track of their health.

"A reduction of 1.6 points is a big deal," said Dr. Charles Bloom, chief medical officer at HAP. "For someone starting with an A1C of 8.5%, that's the difference between uncontrolled diabetes and being in a healthy, managed range. Even for a patient at 7%, a drop of that size often moves them out of the diabetes range altogether."

Such outcomes underscore the power of DCC's coordinated approach. Traditional diabetes medications typically lower A1C by around 0.7% to 1.0% on their own - meaning DCC is often up to twice as effective as standard treatment alone when it comes to blood sugar reduction.

Building on this success, the expanded model leverages HAP's systemwide affiliation to reach members outside of the Henry Ford Health system, accelerating innovation and delivering high quality, personalized care at scale. DCC targets not just high-risk individuals but also moderate- and low-risk members, those with prediabetes and individuals not yet undergoing regular A1C testing.
DCC connects members with the right care at the right time through strategies tailored to their specific health needs. Certified diabetes education specialists, which include local nurses and dietitians, work directly with members to coordinate support and guide their care every step of the way. By providing a reliable, one-stop resource for navigating the complexities of diabetes management, HAP ensures members receive a care plan that delivers meaningful results, not just a one-size-fits-all approach.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, one in three Michigan residents is at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes diagnoses cost an estimated $13 billion in medical expenses each year, according to the American Diabetes Association.

The enhanced program offers a comprehensive suite of interventions, including:

· Diabetes in active control: Intensive coaching and continuous glucose monitoring to improve adherence and outcomes.
· Diabetes self-management training and education: American Diabetes Association-recognized education focused on seven key self-management behaviors.
· Empowerment groups: Peer support communities to foster learning and shared experiences.
· Medical nutrition therapy: Personalized nutrition planning in collaboration with registered dietitians.
· Diabetes in pregnancy support: Specialized diabetes educators to support pregnant members managing diabetes.
· Medication therapy management: Integrated medication support to improve adherence and effectiveness.

To get started, members can call 313-874-7495.

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