How People with Diabetes Benefit from DSMES

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Diabetes doing glucose level test. Fruits in background

Considerable evidence exists linking DSMES participation to positive changes in health behaviors and improved diabetes-related outcomes. Benefits of DSMES participation can include:1

  • Improved hemoglobin A1c levels
  • Improved control of blood pressure and cholesterol levels
  • Higher rates of medication adherence
  • Fewer or less severe diabetes-related complications
  • Healthier lifestyle behaviors, such as better nutrition, increased physical activity, and use of primary care and preventive services
  • Enhanced self-efficacy
  • Decreased health care costs, including fewer hospital admissions and readmissions

Want to learn more about the benefits of DSMES? Check out these resources:

Joint Statement from the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

This joint position statement provides a high-level overview of DSMES and its benefits. In addition, it provides information on education settings, delivery methods, referrals, reimbursement, an algorithm detailing when to refer a person with diabetes to DSMES, and tips for overcoming barriers.

Systematic Review – Effectiveness of Diabetes Education

This 2015 systematic review assesses the effect of DSMES methods, providers, duration, and contact time on glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. The review found data demonstrating that engagement in DSMES results in statistically significant reductions in A1c levels. Specifically, Section 1 discusses the effectiveness and impact of DSMES and references many studies and other reviews.