ADA Program Recognition identifies quality diabetes self-management education services that have met the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education.

The National Standards focus on three main areas, program structure, process, and outcomes.  Here is an overview:

Program Structure

• The program is organized and
  managed in a way that supports its
  mission and goals.
  
  
• Resources are adequate to meet
  the educational needs of the target
  population.
   
• There is an advisory board that
  annually reviews the program and plan for its future.
  


• There is a coordinator who oversees the planning, implementation and evaluation of the program’s services.
  


• The instructional team consists of at least a Registered Nurse and a Registered Dietitian. 


• The instructional staff must be Certified Diabetes Educators, or have the required education and experience.


• The instructors receive regular continuing professional education in diabetes.


• There is a written curriculum that covers ten major content areas.
  
  

  REQUIRED CONTENT AREAS

  1. Diabetes disease process

  2. Nutritional management

  3. Physical activity

  4. Medications

  5. Monitoring

  6. Acute complications

  7. Chronic complications

  8. Goal setting  & problem-solving

  9. Coping & adjustment

  10. Preconception & pregnancy care

  
  
  

Program Process

• Instructors assess each participants’ individual situation, then develops an appropriate educational plan.  At intervals after the education, the instructor follows up with the participant to evaluate their success and/or ongoing needs.
  
  
• A permanent confidential record is kept that documents the participants’ individual assessment, education plan, intervention, and follow-up evaluation. 
  

Program Outcomes

• There is a continuous quality improvement process in place that determines the effectiveness of the program, and identifies where improvements can be made.