title: Training peers to provide ongoing diabetes self-management support (DSMS): results from a pilot study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This study determined the feasibility of training adults with diabetes to lead diabetes self-management support (DSMS) interventions, examined whether participants can achieve the criteria required for successful graduation, and assessed perceived efficacy of and satisfaction with the peer leader training (PLT) program.
  
  
  METHODS
  We recruited nine African-American adults with diabetes for a 46-h PLT pilot program conducted over 12 weeks. The program utilized multiple instructional methods, reviewed key diabetes education content areas, and provided communication, facilitation, and behavior change skills training. Participants were given three attempts to achieve the pre-established competency criteria for diabetes knowledge, empowerment-based facilitation, active listening, and self-efficacy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  On the first attempt 75%, 75%, 63%, and 75% passed diabetes knowledge, empowerment-based facilitation, active listening, and self-efficacy, respectively. Those participants who did not pass on first attempt passed on the second attempt. Participants were highly satisfied with the program length, balance between content and skills development, and preparation for leading support activities.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Findings suggest that it is feasible to train and graduate peer leaders with the necessary knowledge and skills to facilitate DSMS interventions.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  With proper training, peer support may be a viable model for translating and sustaining DSMS interventions into community-based settings.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medical Education and the Michigan Diabetes Research and Training Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, USA. tangts@umich.edu
authors.forename: Tricia S
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Tang
authors.forename: Martha M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Funnell
authors.forename: Marylou
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Gillard
authors.forename: Robin
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Nwankwo
authors.forename: Michele
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Heisler
mesh_terms: D001741:Black or African American; D000368:Aged; D003142:Communication; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008824:Michigan; D008875:Middle Aged; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D010379:Peer Group; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012648:Self Care; D020377:Self Efficacy