Computerized clinical decision support for patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is present in approximately 23 % of the 24 million Americans with diabetes. In order to prevent end stage renal disease and decrease mortality in this population, the American Diabetes Association and the National Kidney Foundation have published clear evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of these patients. Despite these guidelines, patients with diabetes and CKD remain undertreated. In this chapter we will examine existing deficiencies in the treatment of patients with diabetes and CKD. We will then review recent efforts to use computerized clinical decision support to augment the treatment of these patients. Finally, we will describe characteristics of an optimal computerized clinical decision support system to treat patients with diabetes and CKD.