07 Dec Few Diabetics Participate in Diabetes Self-management Education and Training

MedicalResearch.com Interview with
Dr. Rui Li, PhD
Division of Diabetes Translation
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
CDC

Medical Research: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Dr. Li: Diabetes is a serious disease associated with severe complications and premature death. Diabetes Self-management Education and Training (DSMT) helps patients improve blood sugar control, which could reduce the risk for diabetes complications, hospitalizations, and health care costs. However, data showed that fewer than 7% of persons with private health insurance received DSMT within 1 year after diagnosis with diabetes. Furthermore, across different population subgroups, DSMT participation rates were less than 15%.

Medical Research: What should clinicians and patients take away from your report?

Dr. Li: Health care providers are encouraged to refer patients with newly diagnosed diabetes into Diabetes Self-management Education and Training. Patients are encouraged to talk to their doctor or healthcare provider about learning to manage, control, and take charge of their diabetes. More information can be found at http://ndep.nih.gov/hcp-businesses-and-schools/guiding-principles/principle-03-provide-self-management-education-support.aspx.

Medical Research: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Dr. Li: For example, monitor the proportion of patients newly diagnosed with diabetes who complete the Diabetes Self-management Education and Training program, design and evaluate interventions that could increase the rate of DSMT participation among persons with newly diagnosed diabetes.

Citation:

Diabetes self-management education and training among privately insured persons with newly diagnosed diabetes – United States, 2011-2012.
November 21, 2014 / 63(46);1045-1049

Last Updated on December 7, 2014 by Marie Benz MD FAAD