This article reviews research evidence showing to what extent the chronic
care model can improve the management of chronic conditions (using diabetes
as an example) and reduce health care costs. Thirty-two of 39 studies found
that interventions based on chronic care model components improved at least
1 process or outcome measure for diabetic patients. Regarding whether chronic
care model interventions can reduce costs, 18 of 27 studies concerned with
3 examples of chronic conditions (congestive heart failure, asthma, and diabetes)
demonstrated reduced health care costs or lower use of health care services.
Even though the chronic care model has the potential to improve care and reduce
costs, several obstacles hinder its widespread adoption.