Diabetes Self-Management Education in Cook County
Diabetes Self-Management Education Services (DSMES)
Diabetes is the eighth (8th) leading cause of death in the United States, with minority communities having the highest diabetes diagnosis rates in the US. In 2021, 38.4 million Americans (11.6% of the population) had diabetes and each year an additional 1.2 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes!
People with diabetes have a higher risk of bad health complications, like blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, stroke, and amputations. Diabetes can also increase your risk of cancer, such as: liver, pancreas, colon, breast, and bladder cancers
Learn how diabetes self-management education and support services can help you manage diabetes so you can continue to enjoy the things that really matter to you.
Cook County DSME Locations
Where can I find a DSMES Program?
Many local community organizations, hospitals and doctor’s offices offer DSMES Services or will refer you to an organization that can provide it for both the privately and Medicare and Medicaid insured, and for those that don’t have insurance. Ask your provider today!
How can I enroll in a DSMES (Diabetes Education) program?
• To enroll in DSMES you must have a diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes
• Ask your primary care provider (PCP) or a doctor for a referral to DSMES
There are 4 key times to get started with DSMES: when you’re diagnosed with diabetes, at least once a year when you meet with a doctor or when you’re struggling to meet your care goals, if you’ve developed new complications, and during significant life transition and access to care.
To locate a DSMES program, visit the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) or the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (adces.org) to find a program near you.
Why is Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) so Important?
Diabetes education will give you the knowledge, skills and support to help manage your diabetes. It provides you with the foundation to help you navigate your daily life with confidence!
Managing diabetes is super important! Here’s why:
o Feel Great: Keeping your blood sugar at the right level helps you run, jump, and play without feeling tired.
o Stay Strong: Good management helps you stay healthy and avoid getting sick.
o Have Fun with Food: Learn to make yummy choices that are good for you and still enjoy sweets in moderation!
About Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES)
Did you know?
DSMES provides personalized services to help you manage your diabetes. Services can help you:
• Set and track your health goals
• Learn how to use knowledge, skills, and tools to manage your diabetes
• Practice how to fit Diabetes care into all parts of your life
• Find ways to get support when you need it
DSMES is a diabetes education and support program developed for people with type 2 diabetes. It includes a personalized program to help manage blood sugar, improve overall health, and prevent or delay diabetes complications.
Research shows that people who participate in diabetes education programs more likely to have better diabetes-related outcomes than those who do not.
How People Benefit from DSME
Participating in DSME is linked to positive change in health behaviors and improved diabetes-related outcomes.
This includes:
• Improved A1C levels
• Improved management of blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Higher rates of medication adherence
• Fewer or less severe diabetes-related complications
• Healthier lifestyle behaviors, such as better nutrition, increased physical activity, and use of primary care and preventative services
• Enhanced self-confidence to manage diabetes
• Decreased healthcare costs, including fewer hospital admissions and readmissions
CDC Language
This publication is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the financial assistance award totaling $1million with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.