Study circles at the pharmacy--a new model for diabetes education in groups

During the past years diabetes education has developed greatly. However, a survey of diabetes care in Sweden in 1995 showed that only 40% of the patients examined had acceptable HbAlc values. This underlines the need for an effective and low-cost patient education programme. In this study we tested the feasibility of a 1-year group education model for patients with type 2 diabetes at Swedish pharmacies. In the study circles, led by specially trained pharmacists, participants learned how to self-monitor glucose, to interpret the results and to act upon them. We conclude that study circles held at pharmacies are a feasible way of educating persons with type 2 diabetes. The group setting promoted learning through peer help and gave emotional support to participants. Metabolic control as measured by HbAlc improved significantly after 6 months, but reverted to baseline levels again at 12 months. The reason for this needs further investigation.