Diabetes Self-management Education and Support in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Consensus Report
The American Diabetes Association and six other leading diabetes organizations issued Diabetes Self-management Education and Support in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Consensus Report on June 8, highlighting the value of diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) services as part of comprehensive diabetes medical care. The report provides compelling evidence for the need for increased utilization of DSMES, four key times that DSMES is most beneficial, and specific recommendations for both clinicians and health systems to increase access to and participation in DSMES services. Research presented in the report shows a lack of improvement in reaching ADA Standards of Medicare Care in Diabetes clinical target goals since 2005, despite advancements in medication and technology treatment modalities. However, DSMES has long-reaching clinical and psychosocial benefits leading to optimal clinical outcomes, including improved A1C when compared to usual care, reduced onset/worsening of diabetes-related complications, and enhanced quality of life and healthy coping strategies to decrease diabetes-related distress.
The report outlines four key times when health systems and providers should facilitate participation in DSMES: at diagnosis, annually and/or when not meeting treatment target, when complicating factors develop, and when transitions in life and care occur.
To reduce barriers to referral and access to DSMES, health payers, systems and care teams should expand awareness of innovative and nontraditional DSMES services, like those within patient-centered medical homes, community health centers, pharmacies, accountable care organizations, faith-based organizations and homes of people with diabetes. Additionally, technology-based services can further reduce barriers to services, including web-based programs, telehealth, mobile applications and remote monitoring.
ADCES Resources Related to the Consensus Report
DSMES Consensus Report Press Release