MLK Diabetes Program Cuts Amputations to 1 in 1,165 High-Risk Patients
Updated
Updated · Los Angeles Times · Jun 14
MLK Diabetes Program Cuts Amputations to 1 in 1,165 High-Risk Patients
2 articles · Updated · Los Angeles Times · Jun 14
Summary
Four years after launch, MLK Community Healthcare recorded just 1 amputation among 1,165 high-risk diabetes patients, with the lone case occurring less than a month after enrollment.
81% of enrollees lowered blood sugar, 71% brought blood pressure under control, and appointment compliance rose to 84% from 50% under an intensive care model launched in 2021.
$2 million in grant funding let MLK add pharmacists, diabetes educators, community health workers, nurse care managers, produce boxes and cooking classes rather than rely on new drugs or procedures.
South Los Angeles faces acute need: diabetes affects 1 in 6 residents, MLK's emergency department saw 123,000 visits last year versus a 40,000-patient design, and the area has a 1,500-doctor shortage.
The results suggest a template for other safety-net communities, but the main grant expires next year and MLK is seeking renewed foundation support and a possible L.A. Care partnership.