Effectiveness of Diabetes Self-Management Education in Community Health

Background: Diabetes self-management education (DSME) programs utilize a multidisciplinary, skills-based approach allowing participants to make self-management choices and follow a comprehensive plan of care, improving their glycemic control. Objective: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to evaluate the effectiveness of DSME on the reduction of hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1c) and body mass index (BMI) in overweight/obese community health center patients. Methods: The free program met 2 hours weekly for 6 consecutive weeks. A retrospective chart review was conducted to compare baseline to post-session HgbA1c and BMI 12 weeks after completion of the program. Pre- and post-session surveys were also conducted to assess improved diabetes knowledge and confidence. Results: Mean HgbA1c decreased by 1.6% (p = .003) 12 weeks after completion of the program; however, BMI remained unchanged (p = .582). Diabetes knowledge and confidence also improved significantly following DSME (p = .000 and p = .001, respectively). Conclusions: The study demonstrated that a reduction in HgbA1c levels and an increase in diabetes knowledge and confidence can occur in low income, community health center patients following participation in DSME. Implications for Nursing: Community health center patients who have access to free DSME can improve their health, self-efficacy, and diabetes self-management practices.