(P108) Early Insights From an Innovative Intensive Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (iDSMES) Program

Background/Purpose: Managing diabetes is needed more than ever in the era of COVID-19. People with diabetes (PWD) represent 30% of hospitalized cases and 20% of ICU admissions and show an increased risk for disease severity and mortality compared to those without diabetes. We offered patients with type 2 diabetes a lifestyle change program utilizing shared decision-making and problem-solving approaches to improve glycemic control and diabetes self-management. Research Hypothesis and/or Research Questions and Specific

Aims: We hypothesized that a year-long, goal-setting, lifestyle change educational program would improve diabetes outcomes in PWD. We established the intensive Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (iDSMES) program combining Virtual Diabetes Conversation Map® and modified modules from the PreventT2® curriculum to suit PWD. We aimed to pilot iDSMES in PWD. Methods/Methodology: PWD [n=14 (2M/12F) – BMI ≥ 25] underwent the iDSMES in a group setting with their certified lifestyle coaches/diabetes educators/Conversation Map® Trainers using the Zoom® platform every 3 weeks for 12 months. PWD reported fasting blood glucose, weight, blood pressure, and physical activity minutes each session. Hemoglobin A1c, lifestyle practices, and social determinants of health were assessed every 3 months. A total of 9 PWD completed the iDSMES and lost a total of 203lbs (8.8% of their initial body weight). By the end of the year, PWD showed a decrease in their A1c by 1%, fasting blood glucose by 10mg/dL, blood pressure by 10mm Hg for systolic, and 11mm Hg for diastolic. This was associated with increasing their physical activity by 110 minutes weekly. A larger sample size is needed to draw meaningful results from the structured surveys on social determinants of health. Conclusions (Impact on Diabetes Care and Education): This study provides early insights that our iDSMES program is a successful model to enhance lifestyle changes and improve diabetes self-management in PWD. The distance learning modality was convenient and easily accessible during COVID-19 and in turn, helped to overcome barriers to participation. Further analysis is warranted to explore changes in knowledge, behavior, and lifestyle practices associated with going through the program. Source of funding for this research: Texas Department of State Health Services