Here are resources to help patients who are FEP members with diabetes and high blood pressure

This is part of an ongoing series of articles focusing on the tools and resources available to help FEP members manage their health.

As you know, diabetes and hypertension cause significant risks to public health. They play a major role in the development of cardiovascular disease and together account for almost two in three cases of chronic kidney disease, according to the American Diabetes Association. 

The American Heart Association has joined forces with the American Diabetes Association to launch a program called Know Diabetes by Heart to reduce cardiovascular deaths, heart attacks and stroke. Five risk factors have been identified for patients to monitor:

• Body mass index and waist circumference
• Blood pressure
• A1c
• Cholesterol
• Kidney function

Monitoring the numbers associated with these risk factors can give patients a picture of their heart health and risk for heart disease and stroke. The Know Diabetes by Heart flyer, Diabetes & Heart Disease: The Numbers You Need to Know,** explains each risk factor and the target range for each risk factor, and provides a place for patients to record their numbers. More information can be found at knowdiabetesbyheart.org.**

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program^® provides support programs to FEP members with chronic diseases, including diabetes and high blood pressure. The Care Management and wellness programs for Federal Employee Program members flyer describes programs and services offered to FEP members, along with contact information. 

Members and health care providers can contact the FEP Customer Service at 1‑800‑482‑3600 if they have questions about benefits and wellness programs.

**Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan doesn’t own or control this website.