This study looked at the management of diabetes patients during the year prior to the initiation of dialysis.

For this observational study, data were extracted from the National Health Insurance database for general-scheme beneficiaries (77% of the French population). Diabetes patients were identified by at least three reimbursements for antidiabetic drugs in 2012, while the initiation of dialysis was identified by specific refunds in 2013.

Of the 6412 patients initiating dialysis, 37% (n=2378) had diabetes (men: 61%, median age: 71 years, haemodialysis: 92%). Six months prior to dialysis, 68% had filled at least one prescription for insulin, 38% for other antidiabetics (25% glinides, 8% sulphonylureas, 8% metformin, 6% DPP-4 inhibitors), 69% for three or more classes of antihypertensive drugs and 55% for erythropoiesis-stimulating agents. Within 12 months to 1 month of dialysis, 81% were hospitalized, 28% with a main diagnosis of kidney disease. No nephrologist referral or hospitalization was identified at 6–0 months before dialysis in 6% of patients or in 24% at 12–7 months. One in five patients with diabetes consulted a private endocrinologist within 6 months of dialysis. An arteriovenous fistula was created 1 month before haemodialysis in 43% of patients.

The quality of preparation for dialysis was variable despite frequent hospitalizations. These data illustrate the need to mobilize patients with diabetes, and for healthcare professionals to more effectively anticipate and coordinate dialysis.