Diabetes Basics

Locate a Diabetes Prevention Program or Diabetes Self Management Class Near You

Participating in a program helps manage and reduce side effects of Type 2 Diabetes and decreases hospitalizations.

Background 

Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Approximately 743,024 people in Virginia, or 10.9% of the adult population, are living with diabetes.  The United States spends approximately $327 billion annually on medical costs and lost wages, with an estimated cost of $8.4 billion in Virginia each year.

People with diabetes are at higher risk for eye disease and blindness, kidney failure and dialysis, heart disease, stroke, poor wound healing and amputations, poor oral health and loss of teeth, and vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Fortunately, there are evidence-based programs such as the Diabetes Self Management Education and Support (DSMES) that help people better manage their diabetes and promote a long and healthy life. Organizations offering DSMES services can apply for recognition by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) or accreditation by the American Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (ADCES) and are eligible for reimbursement by Medicare, many private health plans, and some state Medicaid agencies. Covered benefits for DSMES vary by insurer, making it important to verify participants’ benefits at the outset.

Benefits of DSMES 

As the CDC states, solid evidence exists linking DSMES participation to positive changes in health behaviors and improved diabetes-related outcomes. The benefits of DSMES participation can include:

  • Improved hemoglobin A1c levels
  • Improved control 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 preventive services
  • Enhanced self-efficacy
  • Decreased health care costs, including fewer hospital admissions and readmissions

Want to learn more about the benefits of DSMES? Visit the CDC’s website for more information

Last Updated: October 17, 2024