Going Beyond Education: A Practical Framework for Diabetes Self-Management and Decision-Making

Historically, “diabetes educators” were expected to be knowledgeable and supportive advocates and coaches who provided comprehensive education for people living with diabetes, a description that fails to communicate the depth of “innovative clinical care, education, management, and support offered by the specialty.”1 As the science that guides diabetes education and care advanced, so did our professional organization, our profession, and our practices.2 To reflect this, the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (ADCES) recently redefined our title and role as “diabetes care and education specialists (DCESIsj), who, as integral members of the care team, provide collaborative, comprehensive and person-centered care and education to people with diabetes and related conditions.”1This is more than just a name change; it requires taking on new responsibilities, and it provides DCESs with the opportunity to evaluate the efficacy and relevance of diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) programs and services.So, as you changed your title, did you also change your practice?