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Metabolic Tests Ignored in Medicaid Patients

January 14, 2009

New analysis of more than 100,000 Medicaid patients suggests that while most psychiatrists are aware of the metabolic risks associated with second-generation antipsychotic medication, and the need to therefore monitor blood glucose and lipid levels, most patients are not screened.

Only approximately 25% of Medicaid patients received blood glucose level tests and 10% of patients had lipid levels tested.

The American Diabetes Association and American Psychiatric Association previously described the metabolic risks associated with second-generation antipsychotics and outlined a monitoring practice for patients. The protocol includes taking baseline assessment of personal/family history, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose level and fasting lipid profile.

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