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. 2010 Jan-Feb;36(1):141-51.
doi: 10.1177/0145721709354606. Epub 2009 Dec 4.

Training community health promoters to implement diabetes self-management support programs for urban minority adults

Mariceli Comellas  1 , Elizabeth A Walker  2 , Sharon Movsas  3 , Sheryl Merkin  3 , Joel Zonszein  2 , Hal Strelnick  3
Affiliations

Training community health promoters to implement diabetes self-management support programs for urban minority adults

Mariceli Comellas et al. Diabetes Educ. 2010 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Objective: To develop, implement, and evaluate a peer-led diabetes self-management support program in English and Spanish for a diverse, urban, low-income population. The program goals and objectives were to improve diabetes self-management behaviors, especially becoming more physically active, healthier eating, medication adherence, problem solving, and goal setting.

Methods: After a new training program for peers led by a certified diabetes educator (CDE) was implemented with 5 individuals, this pilot evaluation study was conducted in 2 community settings in the East and South Bronx. Seventeen adults with diabetes participated in the new peer-led 5-session program. Survey data were collected pre- and postintervention on diabetes self-care activities, quality of well-being, and number of steps using a pedometer.

Results: This pilot study established the acceptance and feasibility of both the peer training program and the community-based, peer-led program for underserved, minority adults with diabetes. Significant improvements were found in several physical activity and nutrition activities, with a modest improvement in well-being. Feedback from both peer facilitators and participants indicated that a longer program, but with the same educational materials, was desirable.

Conclusions: To reduce health disparities in urban communities, it is essential to continue program evaluation of the critical elements of peer-led programs for multiethnic adults with diabetes to promote self-management support in a cost-effective and culturally appropriate manner. Practice Implications A diabetes self-management support program can be successfully implemented in the community by peers, within a model including remote supervision by a CDE.

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References

    1. Funnell MM, Brown TL, Childs BP, et al. National standards for diabetes self-management education. Diabetes Care. 2007;30:1630–1637. - PubMed
    1. Walker EA. The Art and Science of Diabetes Self-Management Education. In: Mensing C, editor. Understanding the individual's health behavior and choices. American Association of Diabetes Educators; Chicago, IL: 2006. pp. 2–5.
    1. Fisher EB, Brownson CA, O'Toole ML, Anwuri VV. Ongoing follow up and support for chronic disease management in the Robert Wood Johnson Diabetes Initiative. Diabetes Educ. 2007;33:202S–207S. - PubMed
    1. Kim M, Berger D, Matte T. Diabetes in New York City: Public Health Burden and Disparities. Department of Health and Mental Hygiene; New York, NY: 2006.
    1. Caban A, Walker EA, Sanchez S, Mera M. It feels like home when you eat rice and beans: perspectives of urban Latinos living with diabetes. Diabetes Spectrum. 2007;21:120–127.

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