Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES)
Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support, DSMES, is an evidence-based program accredited through the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE).
The program is for persons diagnosed with diabetes and looking for tools to manage the disease. DSMES are on-going programs that should be repeated every 1-2 years. In 2015, the ADA, AADE, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) released a joint statement on essential times referrals should be made to DSMES programs. To view the complete statement, click the link here.
Person should:
- Be newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
- Have an annual review of education, nutrition, and emotional needs.
- Be experiencing new complicating factors that affect their self-management.
- Have a transition of care.
The Diabetes Self-Management Education (video) course will teach you the following:
- How to manage blood sugar levels
- How foods affects blood sugar levels
- How to increase physical activity and set realistic goals
- How to control complications from diabetes
- How to reduce costs associated with diabetes
- How to deal with stress
- How to manage medications
These programs can be offered in an individual setting or group setting. During the one-on-one setting, you will create a plan that fits your lifestyle needs. In the group setting, you will have the opportunity to convene with other individuals with diabetes and discuss concerns and strategies for healthier living.