In an attempt to deal with the growth of menace of diabetes, Diabetes Endocrinology Nutrition Management and Research Centre (DENMARC) and BD are forming an Association of Diabetes Educators (ADE) to educate people about the different aspects of managing diabetes. It was launched at the recently held first annual conference of Association of Diabetes Educators in Mumbai amidst several renowned endocrinologists, educators and experts.
“The association has 200 registered diabetes instructors so far to and we are looking forward to add more by the coming year. We are happy to have BD as our knowledge partner who will help educators to come together on a platform and establish the profession of diabetes educators. ADE’s research will focus on building the evidence base for diabetes education and proving the value of the diabetes educator’s intervention in primary healthcare setting,” said Dr Hemraj Chandalia, Diabetologist and Director of DENMARC.
Diabetes educators are healthcare professionals who will educate people with and at risk for diabetes and related conditions to achieve behaviour change goals which would lead to better clinical outcomes and improved health status. Educators of ADE will present their research and clinical work in the quarterly journal to reach out to a larger group of people. This organisation underlines support sites in traditional settings, and will also expand programme options for diabetes care professionals and experts. This association will offer improved support for community-based settings such as physician offices, pharmacies, specialised clinics and centres.
“We are happy at the formation of Association of Diabetes Educators in India as it will significantly try to improve the public health thereby reducing the financial burden on the country’s healthcare system. Diabetes educators play a pivotal role in empowering patients to adhere to effective treatment and mobilising diabetes educators will empower people with diabetes to take charge of their own disease,” said Manoj Gopalakrishna, Managing Director- BD India.
The eligibility criteria to be a part of ADE is to be a graduate in Nutrition or Nursing (B Sc and above) or the incumbent has to be a pharmacist (B-pharm or above) with a minimum three months of practical experience in counselling people suffering from diabetes or two years of practical experience in any healthcare setting. A medical professional (MBBS, MD) recognised by Medical Council of India who has demonstrated abiding interest in diabetes education shall be admitted after due scrutiny by the Executive Council of ADE.
EH News Bureau