The condition diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to use sugar as an energy source. Instead, the body breaks down fat, producing ketones, an acid that builds up in the blood and urine. As well as excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, weakness, fatigue, shortness of breath, fruity breath odor, and confusion, DKA can lead to death if left untreated.
As opposed to traditional health care, direct primary care (DPC) allows primary care physicians to provide services directly to their patients, without involving insurance companies. Among the services patients can access are consultations, exams, lab tests, and care coordination, which they pay a monthly or annual fee for. Typically, DPC practices have fewer patients and more time for each visit, allowing for more personalized and comprehensive care.
For people at risk of DKA or who have experienced it, DPC can offer several benefits, including:
A primary care physician can diagnose DKA, provide fluid and insulin therapy, monitor your blood sugar and ketone levels, and prevent complications.
Reduced out-of-pocket costs since you don't have to pay copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. You don't have to worry about prior authorizations or insurance company denials.
The availability of telehealth services, such as telephone calls, emails, and video chats with your physician, can help you stay in touch and receive timely advice and guidance.
DPC can provide the following benefits to people with DKA:
You can have a closer relationship with your primary care physician, who can get to know you better and understand your needs and preferences.
A DPC physician will address not only your physical issues, but also your mental and emotional well-being, as well as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking.
In addition to having more input and control over your treatment options, you can also select the DPC practice that best suits your needs and values.
Your DPC physician can provide you with more convenience, flexibility, transparency, and respect.
We provide individualized treatment plans based on your medical history, current medications, allergies, and goals.
Providing access to new therapies and technologies not covered by insurance.
Monitoring your blood sugar and ketones with regular lab tests and urine analysis.
Fluids and insulin should be prescribed based on your specific condition and severity of DKA.
Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can be prevented by dietary modifications and supplements.
You will be referred to education programs and support groups that can help you manage your diabetes and prevent DKA.
For those with DKA or those who have suffered from it, finding a health care model that works for them can make a big difference in their lives, as Hippocrates said: "The greatest medicine of all is to teach people how not to need it." If you want more personalized, comprehensive, and affordable primary care, DPC may be a good choice for you.
Previous Post
Next Post
