Challenges and Opportunities in Diabetes Education

Abstract

Diabetes education started with Elliott P. Joslin's efforts to provide comprehensive care for people with diabetes. In the early insulin era, he developed the role of the diabetes teaching nurse or nurse educator. Diabetes education has grown significantly since that time, with excellent and diverse models evolving around the world. This chapter outlines the components of diabetes education and describes various methods of delivery. This chapter also presents the evidence for diabetes education as a vital resource for people with diabetes in reducing acute and chronic diabetes-related complications and improving other health measures. In addition, existing challenges and future opportunities are discussed.