Primary Care Clinicians' Role in Managing Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health

Core Concepts

Primary care clinicians are pivotal in managing cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic health, requiring a holistic approach.

Abstract

Primary care clinicians are highlighted for their crucial role in managing the cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) health of patients. The advisory emphasizes the interconnected nature of obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), introducing new staging, testing, and care strategies. Recommendations include a new scoring system, additional tests, and the need for CKM coordinators to support integrated care teams. Changes in payment models towards value-based care are also discussed.
Primary Care Clinicians' Role in CKM Health

Central role in maintaining CKM health
Empowerment to diagnose and treat conditions holistically
Introduction of new CKM staging system
New CKM Staging, Testing, and Care Strategies

Ranges from stage 0 to stage 4
Specific management strategies for each stage
Recommendations for screening and additional tests
Changes to Payment

Consistent with current management guidelines
Integrated algorithms for cardiovascular prevention
Consideration of barriers to care for younger patients

Stats

"Stage 0 CKM is usually found in young people, and CKM risk factors and scores typically increase as people age," said Sean M. Drake, MD.
"Medications such as SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and ACE inhibitors, beyond current routine use, are emphasized," according to Drake.

Quotes

"We need to be hyper-aware that many patients we see are at risk for multiple CKM entities. We need to be proactive about screening for and treating these when appropriate." - Neha Pagidipati, MD, MPH
"The advisory is an empowering tool for PCPs, underscoring their critical role in healthcare." - Salim Hayek, MD

Key Insights Distilled From

Next Up for PCPs: Managing CKM

by Lorraine L J... at www.medscape.com 12-05-2023

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/meet-newest-acronym-primary-care-ckm-2023a1000ud0

Deeper Inquiries

How can the integration of CKM care teams improve patient outcomes?

The integration of CKM care teams can significantly improve patient outcomes by fostering a collaborative approach to managing cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic health. By bringing together primary care, cardiology, endocrinology, nephrology, nursing, pharmacy, and other healthcare professionals, patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. This multidisciplinary team can work together to develop personalized treatment plans, monitor patients' progress, and address any emerging issues promptly. Additionally, the involvement of social workers, care navigators, or community health workers can help patients overcome barriers to care, leading to better adherence to treatment plans and improved health outcomes.

What potential challenges might arise in implementing the new CKM staging system?

Implementing the new CKM staging system may face several challenges, including resistance to change from healthcare providers accustomed to traditional models of care. Some clinicians may find it challenging to adopt a more holistic approach to managing CKM health, especially if they are used to focusing on individual organ systems. Additionally, there may be logistical challenges in coordinating care among different specialties and ensuring effective communication among team members. Integrating the new staging system into existing electronic health record systems and workflows may also require significant adjustments and training for healthcare staff. Moreover, ensuring that all patients receive appropriate staging and follow-up care can be a logistical challenge, especially in busy primary care settings.

How can the healthcare system adapt to better support the holistic management of CKM health?

To better support the holistic management of CKM health, the healthcare system can implement several strategies. Firstly, there needs to be a shift towards value-based care models that incentivize integrated and coordinated care across specialties. This may involve revising payment structures to accommodate team-based care and incentivize preventive measures. Additionally, healthcare organizations can invest in training programs to educate providers on the new CKM staging system and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Implementing technology solutions that facilitate communication and data sharing among care team members can also streamline care coordination. Furthermore, promoting patient education and engagement in managing their CKM health can empower individuals to take an active role in their care and improve health outcomes.