Reduce Preventable Cardiovascular Events with Timely Statin Therapy 

Each year, a small group of members with cardiovascular disease or diabetes reaches year‑end without statin therapy, leaving them at preventable risk for heart attack and stroke. Statins remain one of the most effective treatments for reducing cardiovascular events in older adults and are central to the Statin Use in Persons with Diabetes (SUPD) measure, which focuses on adults ages 40-75 with diabetes who should be on statin therapy. 

Clinical Steps That Make the Biggest Difference 

Reviewing SUPD‑eligible members and considering statin therapy when clinically appropriate can help reduce risk. Most adults with diabetes benefit from at least moderate-intensity statin therapy. For members new to treatment, starting at an appropriate intensity and adjusting as needed may improve tolerance and outcomes. If muscle symptoms occur, trying a different statin or adjusting the dose is often effective. 

Supporting Adherence in Everyday Practice 

Help members stay on therapy by: 

• Reinforcing lifestyle changes that complement statin use 

• Offering blister packs or synchronized refills 

• Addressing concerns early to reduce fear of side effects 

Visit the provider portal to access a gaps-in-care summary that can help identify SUPD‑eligible members.