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DES Goal - Education

To demonstrate leadership in diabetes education.

  • The Standards for Diabetes Education in Canada were given worldwide recognition when the Diabetes Education Consultative Section (DECS) of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) asked to adopt the standards for use in developed countries and to adapt them for use in developing countries. This document was published by DECS in July, 1997. The Standards for Diabetes Education in Canada were revised in 2000 and are presently under revision.
  • The CDA National Board approved the Self Assessment and Recognition Program recommended by DES in October, 1996. The National Review Panel of peer reviewers are assisted by a staff co-ordinator. Diabetes Education Centres wanting recognition complete a portfolio of supporting documentation and submit it for review by the National Review Panel. The first Recognition Certificates were awarded in December, 1997. This program is currently under revision.

To promote the education of diabetes educators.

  • Building Competency in Diabetes Education: The Essentials—Filled with the most current information, this manual was designed for both those new to diabetes education and more experienced educators who want to update their knowledge. This self-directed program is intended to build on the learner’s existing skills by enhancing his/her knowledge of diabetes and its management.
  • Building Competency in Diabetes Education: Advancing Practice—This product is designed for the ongoing professional education of diabetes educators who have moved beyond the novice level and are seeking to increase their knowledge and skills related to diabetes self-management education.

To encourage certification of diabetes educators.

To support and provide continuing education opportunities for diabetes educators.

  • The first joint Professional Conference and Annual Meetings was held in London, Ontario, in 1997. A National Planning Committee made up of C&SS and DES members works closely with the Conference Planner at CDA. The annual joint professional conference is held in different cities across Canada.
  • Practical Diabetes Management, a program for family physicians, taught in Diabetes Education Centres by educators and physicians continue to be in demand. Several hundred programs have been held across Canada since the program’s inception.

To support the development and sharing of diabetes educator resource materials.

  • Members are encouraged to share resources and practice applications through posters and presentations at the annual conference. It is also expected that the professional section of the web site will facilitate this process.
  • Patient Education Resource Kit (PERK) tear off handouts in English are updated with the Canadian Diabetes Association 2008 Clinical Practice Guidelines.