Barriers, Challenges and Possible Solutions in Establishing Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) in India: A Policy Perspective

The number of diabetic people in India is increasing. A vast gap of health service need and provision exists. However, the proposed agenda of promotion and recognition of diabetes educators may translate into diabetes effective management at individual level to the maximum possibility. Managing diabetes is a unique and on-going process. As such, self-management of the disease is crucial. Diabetes patients should receive support to help them to manage diabetic condition as effectively as possible. This study proposes conceptual approach to diabetes self-management education. This framework further articulates the short term and long term outcomes. DSME promotion through educational intervention in a sustained manner has long-term benefits. DSME in an Indian context as optimally trained, effective, efficient, viable health human resource allocation across different levels is not a feasible solution in a low resource setting. This study proposes that a need exists for further research in an Indian context about the scientific credibility of DSME, financial feasibility, cultural acceptability and operation stability of the policy initiative.