Northshore Internal Medicine Associates Receives Quality Recognition for Diabetes Care

Northshore Internal Medicine Associates, a North Oaks Physician Group clinic in Hammond, has been recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Diabetes Recognition Program for excellence in caring for patients with diabetes.

The NCQA Diabetes Recognition Program (DRP) is a voluntary effort designed to recognize clinicians who use evidence-based measures and meet strict standards demonstrating delivery of high-quality care to patients with diabetes. The recognition is valid for 3 years.

“With this honor, Northshore Internal Medicine Associates joins an elite group of providers across the country that are recognized for providing the highest-level of diabetes care,” states Nancy Turnage, Assistant Vice President of Clinics for North Oaks Physician Group. "Diabetes affects more than 10 percent of adults in the Tangipahoa Parish area. It can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, blindness, kidney failure and even death. With proper management, however, many of these problems can be prevented or slowed down."

“NCQA’s Diabetes Recognition Program honors the vanguard, professionals using the best science to help patients cope with one of modern life’s most pervasive illnesses,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane. “I commend Northshore Internal Medicine Associates for providing high quality care and for going the extra mile to help people with diabetes.”

Northshore Internal Medicine Associates physicians include, pictured at right, Charles Ducombs, MD; Susan Zacharia, MD; Jay Kumar, MD; and William Plunkett, MD. The staff also includes Nurse Practitioner Jennifer Thomas, ANP-BC (not pictured). They specialize in difficult-to-diagnose medical conditions and the management of multiple health concerns for adult patients, including diabetes.

To schedule an appointment with Northshore Internal Medicine Associates or for information on diabetes, please call (985) 230-7675 or visit www.northoaks.org/clinics.