The Diabetes Self-Management Programme (DSMP) supports adults with type 2 diabetes, and their carers, to build the knowledge, skills and confidence to effectively self-manage their condition. With the help and support of the course, individuals feel more confident to work collaboratively with their healthcare professionals to achieve their personal goals.

The programme consists of seven three-hour group sessions, held once a week over seven weeks, with 12-16 people per course. The course is delivered by two trained self-management tutors; a healthcare professional with experience of supporting people with diabetes and a lay person living with diabetes.

DSMP programmes are held online and at accessible venues across Islington and Haringey. Sessions are available on different days and times to suit most people. Demand for evening and weekend courses is monitored and courses provided as appropriate.

Whittington Health (WH) continuously evaluates DSMP outcomes, such as the knowledge, skills and confidence a person has in managing their own health and care. Results consistently show improvements in outcome measures on completion of the programme, which are maintained at least three months following the end of the programme. Research indicates that such improvements are correlated with fewer GP appointments, fewer A&E attendances and emergency admissions, and increased medication adherence.

Targeted text messaging

The Self-Management Support Service has had recent success working with local GP practices to target recruitment to the DSMP for patients with type 2 diabetes, as well as their carers. Practices sending texts messages to their patients with type 2 diabetes has made a great difference to patients' uptake of the programme.

If your practice is interested in implementing text messaging for DSMP, see Targeted text and email promotion of DSMP in Downloads.

Coding patient attendance

It is important that GP practices have processes in place to ensure coding of patient structured-education attendance. The following codes should be used to detail attendance:

• attended: 9OLF
• did not attend: 9NiA
• no response/declined: 9OLM

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

• adults aged 18+
• registered with a Haringey or Islington GP or living in Haringey or Islington
• diagnosed with type 2 diabetes for a minimum of three months or longer
• a carer of someone with type 2 diabetes
• English or Turkish speaking.

How to Refer