EVIDENCE FOR BENEFITS FROM DIABETES EDUCATION PROGRAM

Abstract

Comprehensive patient education is required to provide the patient with the self management skills necessary to achieve good glycemic control. In order to convey the importance of patient education, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has labeled self-management education as the corner stone therapy for the patient with diabetes. Previous research has shown that patient education adds value to diabetes management and that specific interventions aimed at improving patient knowledge can improve diabetes control. Many patients who have had diabetes for several years do not know exactly how diabetes affects the foot. Patients with less formal education have less knowledge of diabetes and this is usually more common in women. When patients are evaluated on their knowledge about diabetes, those who attend education programs seem to have a better knowledge than the non-attenders. The value of patient education is evident from research demonstrating that patients who never received diabetes education are at increased risk of a major complication. The basic objectives in the handling of type-2 diabetes mellitus patients are reaching normal metabolic control and preventing complications. Intensive efforts to increase awareness among health professionals and diabetic individuals to improve diabetes management through education are urgently needed as it provides a useful benchmark to plan future strategies in diabetes care.