Evaluating a new diabetic education program in a family practice clinic

Abstract

Background: Twenty-one million people in the US have been diagnosed with diabetes. Methods: A pilot study was implemented to evaluate a new group diabetes type II education program to improve diabetic patient's knowledge in a primary care setting. The effectiveness of each class was measured in a pre and post test, using the Diabetes Knowledge Questionnaire developed by Eigenmam, et al., (2011). Results: Overall diabetic knowledge scores statistically improved following the education course as well as sub scores on Knowledge of Blood Glucose Levels and Safety scores and Knowledge of Lifestyle Changes scores. Health providers surveyed at the clinic thought the class material was informative and helpful for newly diagnosed diabetic patients. Conclusion: The new diabetic education program was found to have a statistically significant impact on diabetic knowledge. Providers would like to implement this type of program permanently in the future.