For people in Texas living with diabetes, the range of treatment options available can be confusing and surprising. Over 20 therapies for diabetes have been newly approved by the FDA since 2010, giving diabetes patients many more choices in how to treat the disorder. Pharmacists can help to play an important role in assisting both doctors and patients in selecting the right treatment and avoiding potentially dangerous interactions or costly prescriptions.
In a study published by the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, pharmacists highlighted the importance of patient safety when selecting diabetes treatments. There are over 30 million Americans with diabetes, and over 90 percent of diabetes care takes place outside the hospital. As treatment guidelines for diabetes are frequently updated, it is important for doctors to ensure that their diagnosis and treatment plans are correct.
For patients who take insulin, precision and clear instructions for administration can be particularly critical. Around 20 percent of all insulin users administer incorrect doses, putting them at risk of severe hypoglycemia. In addition, sometimes patients can be switched between different products and treatment protocols without a thorough discussion. Many times, there are differences in how treatments should be administered, and patients may lose control over their disease and have serious side effects if they do not receive additional information. In addition, there are a number of drugs that can interact with antidiabetic drugs, leading to kidney issues or hypoglycemia.
Choosing the right treatment for a particular patient’s diabetes can be a complex, highly personalized task. When diabetes is incorrectly diagnosed or poorly treated, the consequences for a patient can be significant and life-changing. Patients who have experienced a worsened medical condition due to side effects, drug interactions or other issues related to their diabetes treatment may benefit from contacting a medical malpractice attorney. A lawyer may be able to review the situation and provide advice on the feasibility of approving a claim.