Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support

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November 29, 2021 | Tags: Healthy Outlooks Wellness


Have you or someone you know been diagnosed with diabetes? It’s important to know where you can find help managing your condition. Through the American Diabetes Association (ADA), you can access diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) classes.

These classes can help you:

  • Lower your A1C
  • Prevent or reduce complications related to diabetes
  • Lower your medical costs
  • Improve your quality of life
  • Cope with the stress and emotions related to diabetes
  • Gain the confidence to solve problems when they arise

Signing Up

To sign up for DSMES classes, you will need a referral from your doctor or healthcare provider. The ADA recommends enrolling as soon as a person is diagnosed with diabetes, and then annually if needed. It’s also a good idea to attend classes when you start a new medication, have new health issues, or experience a life change.

How to Find Classes

You can search for locations for DSMES classes by visiting the ADA website or the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES) website.

Note: When you search the ADA or ADCES websites, the results will not indicate whether the locations are in your network. Before you schedule classes, make sure to verify a location’s network status by calling Customer Care at the number on your ID card.