Abstract:

Diabetes Self Management Education (DSME) referrals involve patients with varying levels of literacy and diabetes self care experience and knowledge. Recognized DSME programs currently offer standard curriculum in a marathon 10 hour approach or in multi-visits which total 10 hours. Nationwide program completion rates continue to be disappointing. In an effort to find ways to improve completion rates, Wohl Clinic diabetes educators designed a modular program that covers the required content but allows patients to choose sessions based on self assessment of knowledge/skill deficits. This modular approach offers these key features: • AADE 7 self-care behavior driven • safety-based content progression• built-in, application-based self evaluation• self-selection of course content• sensitivity to culture and all literacy levelsThis unique modular program promotes a patient centered and empowered approach to behavior self change – the keys to improved health outcomes.

Primary Author:

Lillie C. Larsen
Diabetes Educator, Barnes Jewish Hospital