Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are most often managed in general practice. New guidelines are regularly issued, and new medications continue to emerge. Therefore, general practitioners (GPs) need to remain updated to ensure that patients receive the latest recommended medications.

In her PhD project, Anne Sofie Baymler Lundberg, who is also affiliated with the Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, has investigated whether the management of T2D could be improved through virtual conferences, where hospital specialists participate alongside GPs. 

More patients received cardioprotective medication

The general practice clinics that participated in virtual conferences as part of a randomised trial had higher proportions of patients prescribed cardioprotective medication compared to the control group. However, the results showed no significant differences for other medication-related recommendations.

Particularly relevant when implementing new guidelines

Overall, the virtual conferences were well received and were implemented and conducted as planned. In interviews, the participating GPs were asked whether the virtual conferences should be a permanent offer, and opinions varied. Some considered them particularly relevant during the implementation of new guidelines.

Younger patients and women warrant attention

As part of the project, two registry-based studies were also conducted. The first study mapped the frequency of contacts across sectors, showing that younger patients have more frequent transitions and contact with a wider range of healthcare professionals compared with older patients. 

The second registry study examined the risk factors for potentially inappropriate medication (PIM). A key finding was that women seem to be at greater risk of receiving PIM. Therefore, younger patients and women may warrant particular attention in cross-sectoral interventions. 

Oral defence on 25 June 2026

Anne Sofie Baymler Lundberg will defend her PhD dissertation entitled ”Care and treatment of people with type 2 diabetes: Continuity of care across sectors and potentially inappropriate prescribing” on Thursday, 25 June 2026 at 14:00 at the Merete Barker Auditorium (room 211, building 1253), Lakeside Lecture Theatres, Aarhus University, Bartholins Alle 3, 8000 Aarhus C.

The defence is open to the public. Following the defence, a reception will be held in room 1261-118 at the Department of Public Health, Aarhus University.

About the project

The PhD dissertation and the four included scientific papers present the results of a three-year enrolment at the Graduate School of Health, Aarhus University. The work was conducted at the Research Unit for General Practice in collaboration with the Department of Public Health at Aarhus University and the Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus.

The project was supported by grants from the Committee for Quality Improvement and Continuing Medical Education in General Practice in the Central Denmark Region, the Research Fund for General Practice, the Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, the Hede Nielsen Family Foundation, the Helga and Peter Korning Foundation, Aarhus University Research Exchange grant, and the Graduate School of Health at Aarhus University.

Further information

PhD student Anne Sofie Baymler Lundberg 
Aarhus University, Department of Public Health & 
Research Unit for General Practice
fie.lundberg@ph.au.dk