Important aspects of self-management education in patients with diabetes.

The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial has shown that the long-term complication of diabetes can be decreased with intensive glycemic control. However, comprehensive patient education is required to provide the patient with the self-management skills necessary to achieve this level of glycemic control. Epidemiologic data indicate that large numbers of patients do not receive the proper care or education necessary to develop such self-management abilities. In order to convey the importance of patient education, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has labeled self-management education as a cornerstone of therapy for patients with diabetes. Standards of care have also been defined by the ADA. Within the current U.S. health care system, however, limitations are present that may affect the quality of care and ability to provide adequate patient education. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the health care provider to improve the education process in an attempt to maintain standards of care outlined by the ADA. When developing a diabetes self-management training program, the ADA national standards can be used as a guideline.