Education for individuals with diabetes plays a pivotal role in preventing long-term complications. It significantly influences the course and outcomes of the disease. The Diabetes Education Consultative Section of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has developed a globally accepted Curriculum for Diabetes Health Professional Education designed to train diabetes educators. This curriculum is particularly pertinent in developing countries where such training is scarce and has been trialled in diverse regions worldwide, encompassing cultural, geographic, and socio-economic variations.Cambodia and Vietnam have been chosen as target areas for implementing a two-year training program for diabetes educators. These countries will serve as pilot regions for the future expansion of IDF-inspired methods.The project aims to provide training courses for healthcare professionals in Cambodia and Vietnam, focusing on the care, management, and education of individuals with diabetes.
The project adopts a "train the trainer" approach and consists of three key components:1. Basic Training Courses: Two 5-day training courses, each accommodating 25 healthcare providers, will be conducted. These interactive courses will be based on the IDF curriculum and methods, with potential adaptations to suit local cultural requirements.2. Community-Based Implementation: Following the introductory courses, each of the 50 participants will be expected to establish a diabetes facility in their local community and train five other healthcare professionals in diabetes education, care, and management. This phase spans one year, and the diabetes educators will have access to mentors through an online platform throughout this period.3. Advanced Programme: A 3-day advanced programme will be conducted one year after the introductory courses further to enhance the skills and knowledge of the diabetes educators.It is anticipated that diabetes educators will continue training healthcare staff even after completing the advanced programme. To enhance the project's sustainability, ongoing support will be provided through an online mentorship arrangement.
- 53 people trained to be trainers for other diabetes educators- 21 nurses and 156 health care professionals trained in diabetes care or any other relevant skill- 7,500 persons reached at awareness activities