At a glance
Explaining the value of DSMES to health care providers can increase referrals. Help health care providers understand the benefits of DSMES and consider referral as a critical part of the treatment plan for their patients with diabetes.
Increasing referrals
Reasons for referral
Make sure health care providers understand the reasons behind post-diagnosis referrals:
- A diabetes diagnosis can be "positive" because it enables patients to take action.
- Expecting people with diabetes to make lifestyle changes without access to services and support is unrealistic.
- Additional support helps people with diabetes stay motivated and can keep them from reverting to old habits.
Effective conversations
Understanding the benefits of DSMES can help referring health care providers have more effective conversations with their patients who have diabetes. They may be the ones to tell newly diagnosed people that they have diabetes. Health care providers should explain the basics:
- Causes of diabetes
- Possible complications
- Treatment options
- Nutrition education
- Blood glucose monitoring
Encourage referring health care providers to give people with diabetes the time and opportunity to ask questions. Health care providers can explain that DSMES services are an important tool to help their patients manage diabetes.
Marketing DSMES services
Direct health care providers to the DSMES Promotion Playbook, a resource that helps promote DSMES in a consistent, unified voice. They can use the playbook to help clearly explain and market the benefits of DSMES services to those living with diabetes.