Diabetes Self-Management Program

Steps for Healthier Living™ Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP): A Workshop for People Living with Diabetes

AmeriHealth Caritas Pennsylvania and AmeriHealth Caritas Northeast are collaborating with the Health Promotion Council on the Pennsylvania Community Living Initiative (PA CLI) to provide the Steps for Healthier Living Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP). This program was developed by the Stanford Patient Education and Research Center of Stanford University with the aim of reducing the negative impacts of diabetes for adults with type 2 diabetes, ages 60 and older, and adults with disabilities, ages 18 and older.

What is the DSMP?

The Steps for Healthier Living DSMP is  a series of  workshops conducted  in community locations that are convenient and accessible such as churches, libraries, community centers, and health care settings. Here are some other facts about the program:

  • Workshops are facilitated using a highly detailed manual and led by two trained lay-leaders, one or both who may have diabetes themselves.
  • The workshops are interactive and provide a supportive learning environment.
  • Participants focus on action planning and problem solving through group activities designed to be engaging. Participants are encouraged to develop weekly action plans, share their experiences, and help each other solve problems they encounter in creating and implementing their self-management programs.
  • Participants use the Living Health and Chronic Conditions workbook to guide their learning.
  • Participants each receive a relaxation audio CD to practice techniques at home.

The DSMP workshop covers:

  • Techniques to deal with the symptoms of diabetes, fatigue, pain, hyper/hypoglycemia, stress, and emotional problems such as depression, anger, fear, and frustration.
  • Appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength and endurance.
  • Healthy eating.
  • Appropriate use of medication.
  • Working more effectively with health care providers.

What are the benefits for providers?

  • Provides an additional resource to reinforce diabetes management skills with your patients.
  • Helps empower patients to take control of their health to assist with improved outcomes.
  • Promotes a continuity of care between peer groups and medical providers.
Providers