See below for ideal ranges for labs when you are documenting lab values for you CenCal members.
Medical Category | Ideal Clinical Target (The "to [X]" Goal) | Focus Behavior for Note | Example SMART goals |
Diabetes & Pre-Diabetes | A1c < 7.0% (or < 6.5% for Gestational) | Carb-consistency and glycemic control. | Specific: By the end of 8 weeks, use portion control techniques at 80% of main meals to support an A1c < 7.0%. Measurable: Log meals and successful portion control application daily. Achievable: Focus on using a 9-inch plate for accurate measurement. Relevant: Directly impacts glycemic control. Time-bound: Within 8 weeks. |
Hypertension & CVD | BP < 130/80 mmHg | Sodium reduction and DASH diet patterns. | Specific: Limit daily sodium intake to under 1,800 mg (vs. current 3,000 mg) to achieve BP < 130/80 mmHg. Measurable: Track sodium of all packaged foods and restaurant meals using a mobile app. Achievable: Eliminate high-sodium canned soups and frozen dinners. Relevant: Key factor in reducing blood pressure. Time-bound: For the next 4 weeks. |
CKD (Stage 3 & 4) | Potassium < 5.0 mEq/L | Mineral management (K+/Phos) and protein pacing. | Specific: Reduce portion sizes of high-potassium foods (bananas, oranges, potatoes) to 1/2 cup daily to maintain Potassium < 5.0 mEq/L. Measurable: Measure and record all fruit/vegetable servings. Achievable: Consult with dietitian for low-K+ substitutes. Relevant: Manages hyperkalemia in CKD. Time-bound: Daily for 3 weeks. |
End Stage Renal (ESRD) | Phosphorus < 4.5 mg/dL | Strict adherence to renal-safe food choices. |
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Obesity & Dyslipidemia | 5-10% Body Weight Loss or LDL < 100 | Portion control and healthy fat replacement. |
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Anemia | Hgb increase of > 1.0 g/dL | Iron/B12 intake and nutrient absorption. |
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Heart Failure | Edema/Weight Stability | Daily fluid tracking and sodium limits (<2g). |
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Malnutrition & Wasting | Albumin > 3.5 g/dL | High-protein/High-calorie frequency. |
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GI (Crohn's, UC, Celiac) | CRP < 10 mg/L (Reduction in inflammation) | Trigger food avoidance and bowel rest/healing. |
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COPD / Asthma | O2 Sat > 92% | Small, frequent meals to reduce breathing effort. |
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Liver Disease | ALT/AST within normal limits | Zero alcohol and reduction in refined sugars. |
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Thyroid Issues | TSH 0.4–4.0 mU/L | Consistency in intake to support medication. |
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