Self-management support for insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes

PURPOSE The purpose of this article is to describe the self-management support that can be provided by diabetes educators for type 2 diabetes patients who are transitioning from therapy with oral hypoglycemic agents to insulin. METHODS The role of the diabetes educator in patient education and self-management support during all aspects of insulin therapy is discussed. Phases during which support may be especially important include the decision-making process, initiation, and maintenance. RESULTS Although some patients make the decision fairly easily, the introduction of insulin therapy is likely to raise many issues and questions for many type 2 diabetes patients. The more reluctant patients may experience psychological insulin resistance, a syndrome where insulin therapy is viewed as a threat or failure, which can affect health professionals as well. The diabetes educator can provide support and approaches to bel. p diminish this resistance and make the transition to insulin therapy easier and more effective for patients with type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSIONS Education and ongoing self-management support are needed for informed decision making and the initiation and maintenance Of insulin therapy. Therefore, diabetes educators have a critical role to play during both the decision-making process and the safe transition to insulin therapy.