Impact of a Pilot Baseline Diabetes Knowledge Assessment on Clinical Biomarkers in a Diabetes Education Program

Abstract

Background: Research has shown the benefits of Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) but there is little guidance given on how to best individualize an education plan. Diabetes knowledge tends to correlate to improvements in health outcomes. Incorporating a baseline knowledge assessment may be one approach. Objectives: Describe the impact of incorporating a baseline knowledge assessment in individual DSMES on health outcomes in persons with diabetes. Methods: This single-center, quality improvement study included adult participants enrolled in a DSMES program. Participants completed a knowledge assessment at their first individual education appointment. The score determined specific areas of focus for education. Hemoglobin A1C (A1C), lipid panel, and blood pressure (BP) were recorded at baseline and at least 3 months after study entry. Baseline and follow-up results for the intervention group were compared to a control group who received DSMES but did not take the knowledge assessment. The study was IRB approved. Results: There was a significant reduction in A1C and systolic BP from baseline in the intervention group. Conclusion: DSMES had an impact on lowering A1C from baseline, but the use of the knowledge assessment at baseline did not make a larger impact on clinical biomarkers than DSMES alone.