Evaluation of a diabetes education program in Newcastle, NSW.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the level of coverage and effectiveness of diabetes education provided by the Newcastle Diabetes Education and Stabilisation Centre (DESC) to people taking insulin.


METHODS
A community based survey of people presenting a prescription for insulin to retail pharmacies in the Hunter Region. The study characterised participants and non-participants in the DESC program by social and demographic factors and assessed the knowledge, blood glucose control and symptoms of diabetic complications they reported. The study also assessed their attitude towards diabetes and diabetic self-care and their feelings towards and use of clinical services.


RESULTS
There were 229 respondents, 75% had attended the DESC course, however single males living in rural areas were significantly less likely to attend. Course attenders were more likely to do blood tests and visit an ophthalmologist and podiatrist than non-attenders, but were not more knowledgable about diabetes or reported fewer complications. Despite high levels of use of health care services including eye care, by people with diabetes, and an overall positive attitude to diabetes management, the study revealed a widespread ignorance of the serious consequences of diabetes.


CONCLUSIONS
People with diabetes taking insulin in the Hunter Region have an overall positive attitude to diabetes and a high level of participation in a formal diabetes education program. Attendance was associated with increased use of eye care and foot care services, despite little demonstrable effect on knowledge or self-reported diabetes control.
Lowe
J M
JM
Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Lambton, NSW 2305, Australia. mdjl.@mail.newcastle.edu.au
Bowen
K
K
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006296:Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007328:Insulin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012648:Self Care / Q000592:standards; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D007328:Insulin