title: Future perspectives of lay organizations.
abstract: The article describes the contributions of lay organizations in the field of diabetes. Attention is paid to the often-used terminology like laymen, patients and chronic disease. Further, the major contribution of lay organizations is stressed--their unique knowledge advocacy group for social rights, improvement, and partnership, also concerning the relationship with professionals. Financial restraints for the organization of people with chronic diseases are presented. Conclusions are drawn on the future role of lay organizations.
mesh_terms: D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000191:economics / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D009664:Norway; D009938:Organizations; D010344:Patient Advocacy; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*