Strategies for implementing a promotores-led diabetes self-management program into a clinic structure

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Community Health

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes affects large populations, particularly in underserved communities lacking healthcare professionals.
• Effective diabetes self-management education is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Integrating community health workers (promotores) can bridge gaps in healthcare access and education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a systematic process for integrating promotores into a community clinic setting.
• To facilitate the delivery of diabetes self-management education by trained community health workers.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Donabedian structure, process, and outcome methodology for integration.
• Developed a model encompassing promotora employment, training, and oversight.
• Established policies for care coordination, communication, documentation, and quality control.

Main Results:

• Successful employment and training of promotores (community health workers) for diabetes self-management courses.
• Integrated provider and nurse oversight in course design and implementation.
• Established robust care coordination, quality control, and culturally competent educational practices.

Conclusions:

• The presented model offers a systematic and safe approach to address educational needs of type 2 diabetes patients in resource-limited communities.
• Integration of promotores enhances the capacity of community clinics to deliver essential diabetes self-management education.
• This model promotes culturally competent care and improves patient safety.