Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES)

Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) program provides the skills and knowledge an individual needs to mange their diabetes. DSMES is tailored for an individual’s needs, goals, and experience. By working with a certified diabetes educator or healthcare professional, individuals will learn how to eat healthy, increase their physical activity, monitor blood sugar levels, take medication, and reduce the risk for other health conditions.¹ Successfully managing diabetes will help people with diabetes feel better and can reduce the risk of of developing complications, including heart disease, eye disorders, kidney disease, nerve damage, dental disease, and lower leg amputation.²

See a Diabetes Educator when:³

• An individual is first diagnosed with diabetes (type 1 or type 2)
• An individual goes for a yearly follow up visit with their doctor
• Health complications arise
• Changes in patient's care occur

Resources

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Self-Management Education: Learn More. Feel Better. https://www.cdc.gov/learnmorefeelbetter/programs/diabetes.htm
2. Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialist - About Diabetes Education. https://www.diabeteseducator.org/living-with-diabetes
3. Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialist. 4 Key Times to See a Diabetes Educator. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOWxtCp5Opg