Voices of Diabetes

Note: Hope Warshaw, MMSc, RD, CDE is a paid consultant for Novo Nordisk and wrote this story on behalf of Novo Nordisk

Diabetes educators are an underused source of support. They can be a sounding board, coach, or cheerleader; or offer you a shoulder to cry on or hearty pats on the back when you accomplish a goal. Diabetes educators can help you problem-solve and find realistic solutions to more effectively and efficiently manage your diabetes. They can even invite you to join a support group they offer.

As you assemble your support network, consider including a diabetes educator. These healthcare providers are most often nurses or dietitians who have received training and/or developed additional expertise counseling people with diabetes. Pharmacists, exercise physiologists, and behavioral counselors can also be diabetes educators. Many diabetes educators become Certified Diabetes Educators, or CDEs.

You may even find that your health plan is willing to cover your diabetes educator’s services. Check the details with your health plan and the diabetes educators you want to see.

134150