How does Self-Management Education benefit the patient with diabetes?

Self-Management Education (SME), which includes skills training, coping strategies, problem-solving and case management, has been demonstrated to improve the individuals ability to engage in effective self-care, lower glycated hemoglobin (A1C) levels and enhance quality of life3. The term self-management education, rather than diabetes education, emphasizes the importance of including a variety of client-centred strategies and interventions that address the physical, psychological and social management of living with a chronic illness. The objectives of diabetes SME are to increase the persons involvement in, confidence with and motivation for control of their diabetes, its treatment and its effect on their lives.3 It includes supporting the learner in activities such as: making dietary choices incorporating an exercise regimen into their day to day activities interpreting and acting on the results of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) using medications as recommended including possible medication adjustment (in conjunction with the health care team) daily preventive practices such as good foot care For example, individuals with diabetes can be taught to interpret their own blood glucose (BG) results and make appropriate changes. Additional information regarding dietary choices, physical activity and blood glucose levels before and particularly after meals is frequently required to guide treatment decisions.3,4