Peer Support Programs For Health Education
We have medications to control diabetes but treatments don't always work and people have problems with the various methods. Many diabetic patients still struggle to control their blood sugar and other health factors.
While patient education and support can improve outcomes, many practices do not have resources to enable nurses and other trained professionals to provide such education and support. So the question comes up 'do you need highly trained people to serve as support staff for this education?' Why not get peer support groups where other diabetics help with advice and counseling.
The researchers found that peer groups actually did a great job because people with a health problem understand their problem as well as anyone. The recently enacted Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act endorses community support including peer support programs, especially for medically underserved populations. Community help could be key.
Reported By: Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor
