Sweet Success: A Deeper Look at Diabetes in Primary Care

Complete one or both of the interactive, self-paced eLearning modules on your computer or mobile device. Earn free contact hours!

PART 1 - About 1 in 10 Americans have diabetes, with 90-95% of those having Type 2 Diabetes. (CDC) The majority of these people receive health care in the primary care setting (Pilla et. al). Physiologically, diabetes affects multiple organ systems, as well as the emotional well-being of the affected person. Medicine regimens can be complex, especially for an older person with other chronic conditions. To enable the practice staff to support the person with Type 2 Diabetes, this course uses case studies of familiar patients seen in primary care. Practical office-based clinical assessment and patient education concepts are presented. Basic pharmacology of diabetes drugs, laboratory tests used to assess and monitor the disease and common physical exam findings are covered. Register online at www.nwahec.org/75805

PART 2 - Managing diabetes requires much more than taking medicines and visiting the primary care provider’s office---lifestyle changes at the heart of a person’s very self are needed. People with diabetes are 2-3 times more likely to have depression than those without diabetes (CDC). Typically considered a lifelong chronic condition, Type 2 diabetes requires the affected person to incorporate it into their self-image and work every day on difficult behavior changes. Mood disturbances may also be the result of physiologic changes caused by the illness, or from medication side effects. Building on the foundation of Part 1 of this series, this module focuses on the impact a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes can have on the mental health of patients they see in primary care. Register online at www.nwahec.org/75808

Part 2 builds on the case study presented in Part 1, so you are encouraged (but not required) to take both modules.

There is no charge for either online course. Course registration is generously supported by the Division of Health Benefits.