Diabetes Patient Education: A Consumer View

Abstract

Currently there is no cure for diabetes of either type. Thinking for the pancreas remains an awesome re sponsibility, involving daily demands far beyond simple compliance . People who live with diabetes need lifelong access to up-to-date education pro grams for self-care that meet national standards for quality. Health profes sionals and patients need to collaborate as equals in designing individualized treatment plans. Prompt, well-coordinated, and documented referral for prevention and early diag nosis of complications is essential. Optimal use of community resources for support services can reduce the high cost of acute care. These ap proaches call for fundamen tal changes in national health strategies and in the attitudes, skills, and habits of health professionals.