Visual Abstract

Patient’s perception toward the role of the diabetes educator (DE) determine their reception and compliance of the training received.

Objective: To understand how individuals with diabetes identify the DE role.

Methods: Cross-sectional survey conducted in National Guards outpatient clinics in 3 major Saudi cities.

Results: 411 patients: 58.2% T1DM, 34.6% T2DM, 3.6% GDM, 63.4% female, 46% < 20 years, 36% had DM complications, 74.8% on insulin. 45% followed by endocrine, 20.8% by Internal Medicine, and 19.6% by Family Medicine. 82.6% admitted being referred to DE but 19% did not attend, main reason conflict of appointments. 44.3% referred at diagnosis, 25.8% at starting insulin, and 16.3% for poor control. 70% stated DE were accessible, and 79% were strongly satisfied. 47.6% visit DE every 3 months, and 35.7% as needed. 53.3% stated the DE was involved in insulin dose adjustment. Patients were most interested learning SMBG, healthy eating, and taking medications. 87.3% confirmed they follow the suggestions all/most of the time.

Conclusions: Most patients appreciate the diabetes educator role in their management. DE should be supported and empowered. More research needed on impact on patient outcomes.

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Disclosure

R. Alamoudi: None. M. A. Alawad: None. F. J. Alhaider: None. S. A. Khashwayn: None.

© 2021 by the American Diabetes Association
2021
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