A senior woman getting a checkup at the doctor's office.

Healthcare professionals have a variety of self-management education programs to choose from for individuals struggling to manage or prevent diabetes. Understanding the purpose for each program and using the power of provider referral to recommend the best option may change and even save a life.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month and the Great Plains Quality Innovation Network (QIN) will be hosting The Big Picture of Diabetes Self-Management Education on Thursday, November 16, 2017 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (CT). This WebEx webinar will highlight the purpose and benefits of each diabetes education option for creating positive health outcomes.

Diabetes programs take many forms including individual sessions provided by healthcare professionals and group programs offered in community and healthcare settings.

“While healthcare providers explain the symptoms and treatment options, individuals with diabetes and pre-diabetes often need extra support to make the necessary lifestyle changes,” explained Denise Kolba, RN, MS, CNS, program manager for the Great Plains QIN. “Recommending the right program based on the diagnosis provides the support and knowledge to make the right daily choices to prevent diabetes or manage high blood glucose levels.”

Measuring average blood glucose using an A1C test is the primary indicator for diagnosing diabetes. Diabetes is diagnosed when the A1C level is 6.5 percent or higher.  A range of 5.7 percent to 6.4 percent is considered pre-diabetes; with the normal range falling at less than 5.7 percent.

The National Diabetes Prevention Program is focused on preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes. Recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these lifestyle change programs include three components:

    1. CDC-approved curriculum and supporting resources
    2. Trained lifestyle coach to lead the program, encourage participants and facilitate discussion
    3. Support group of individuals with similar goals and challenges

Kolba is just one of the Great Plains QIN team members who serve as trainers for evidence-based diabetes self-management education programs; targeted primarily for adults diagnosed with diabetes and their caregivers. While the two programs have a slightly different structure, each is formatted as a six-week workshop facilitated by a trained leader to provide support and encourage group interaction.

“It’s rewarding to see the workshop participants support each other to take charge of their health,” Kolba shared. “The encouragement of others facing the same challenges creates a bond and lightens the load of making the healthy choice, every time, every day.” To learn more about our efforts and the services offered, visit our Web site. Be sure to join our Learning and Action Network to get connected!