Abstract

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) affects 30–40% of all patients with diabetes and contributes significantly to the cardiovascular burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Despite the availability of evidence-based medications like finerenone and simple screening tests such as Urinary Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR), more resources are still needed to care for DKD patients. Physician Associates (PAs) play a crucial role in the multidisciplinary team responsible for DKD diagnosis, monitoring, and management. A nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, namely finerenone, was approved by the FDA in adults with CKD associated with type 2 diabetes to reduce the risk of renal and cardiovascular outcomes. Finerenone is considered among the pillars of care for DKD, furthermore, the addition of finerenone in combination with renin-angiotensin system inhibitors and/or other renal protective medications may offer additional benefits. Primary care providers prescribe finerenone less frequently than specialized care providers, indicating a need to empower physician associates in medication prescription and other renal protection strategies. As part of a multidisciplinary team, physician associates can play an important role in evaluating risk factors that contribute to heart disease and metabolic health. They can also monitor not only kidney function by ordering tests, such as serum creatinine and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio every 3–12 months, but also serum potassium levels. Additionally, physician associates can encourage patients to take responsibility for their health by regularly monitoring their blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and body weight. With early detection and management, kidney failure and cardiovascular events may be preventable. Specialized physician associates also play a significant role in the comprehensive care of DKD patients, especially in the later stages. DKD care can be hindered by numerous factors such as lack of patient engagement during counseling, cost disparities, and a complex referral system that requires multidisciplinary guidelines to improve professional communication. It is necessary to re-envision the physician associates’ role in primary care and empower them in goal-directed therapies.

Graphical abstract