Evaluation of Care Cascade Outcomes for Patients with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in a Specialist-Supported Primary Care Model at a Community Health Center in Rhode Island.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with significant maternal and neonatal morbidity. Timely diagnosis and appropriate management of GDM decreases adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study sought to assess prevalence and management of GDM in an underserved federally qualified health center (FQHC) setting in Rhode Island using a care cascade framework. A three-year retrospective chart review of patients who initiated obstetrical care between 2019 and 2021 was conducted. Of this sample, 16.81% patients met criteria for a GDM diagnosis, two-thirds of whom ultimately required pharmacotherapy. In the analysis of care cascade outcomes, 96.8% of patient underwent the recommended screening for GDM and 79.5% were linked to care. This FQHC cares for high-risk obstetrical patients through a specialist supported primary care model and this study demonstrates that this model can facilitate appropriate GDM care in high-risk populations.