A Group Approach to the Management of Diabetes in Adolescents and Young Adults

An interdisciplinary team of health professionals developed a model treatment program to improve adherence, self-management, and metabolic control for five inner city, black, young adult, diabetic women. Following an initial in-hospital evaluation, the staff met with the patients as a group once a month for 18 mo. The professional approach was supportive and nonjudgmental to assist the group members in developing confidence and assuming responsibility for the successful management of their diabetes. Discussions covered the group's educational needs, insulin requirements, and psychosocial problems of adjusting to living with a chronic disease. Analysis of clinical findings showed a significant improvement in plasma glucose, hemoglobin A_1c, and cholesterol levels.