Self-Management Education

Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) is the ongoing process of facilitating the knowledge, skills, and ability necessary for diabetes self-care, as well as activities that assist a person in implementing and sustaining the behaviors needed to manage his or her condition on an ongoing basis, beyond or outside of formal self-management training. This process incorporates the needs, goals, and life experiences of the person with diabetes and is guided by evidence-based standards. The overall objectives of DSMES are to support informed decision-making, self-care behaviors, problem-solving and active collaboration with the health care team and to improve clinical outcomes, health status, and quality of life.

2017 National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support

DSME Programs in Alabama

Visit Alabama Chronic Disease Resource Directory for a list of places that offer Diabetes Self Management Education and Support.

This interactive map includes Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (ADCES) accredited and American Diabetes Association (ADA) recognized DSME programs throughout the state of Alabama. 

DSME Advisory Board

The ADPH Diabetes Control Program established an advisory board to provide strategies to increase the utilization of DSME programs throughout the state. Stakeholders were invited to join the board based on their expertise and experience working with diabetes. The DSME Advisory Board will meet annually to discuss increasing the number of AADE accredited and ADA recognized DSME programs, improvements that have been made to existing programs, and what steps are needed to address barriers. If you would like more information or would like to join the DSME Advisory Board, please contact us.