Class Description and Eligibility
Diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) is delivered by diabetes care and education specialists. Collaboratively, they work with a person who has diabetes to create a plan of care that is personalized to an individual’s lifestyle, culture, beliefs and environment. Sessions cover everything from understanding how to use devices like meters, insulin pens, pumps and continuous glucose monitors, to interpreting data from these devices to identify patterns and areas of concern. Together, they work to find solutions that address their most pressing challenges [5].
Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support programs provide information and skills for people to manage their diabetes. DSMES addresses your individual needs, goals, and life experiences and is guided by evidence-based standards [5]. You’ll learn how to:
- eat healthy,
- be physically active,
- monitor blood sugar levels,
- take medication,
- problem solve,
- reduce risk for other health conditions,
- cope with the emotional side of diabetes,
- improve your health and quality of life
National Diabetes Statistics
- Total: 34.2 million people have diabetes (10.5% of the US population)
- Diagnosed: 26.9 million people, including 26.8 million adults
- Undiagnosed: 7.3 million people (21.4% are undiagnosed) [4]
Wyoming Diabetes Statistics
- In 2019, 7.8% of adults in Wyoming reported a diabetes diagnosis [7]
For more information about thriving with a diabetes diagnosis click HERE!
The best times for diabetes education are:
1. When you’re diagnosed with diabetes
2. As part of your annual assessment of education, nutrition or emotional issues
3. When new complications arise
4. During changes in your healthcare team or treatment [6]
