[Diabetes immersion training as teaching method to medical practitioners]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Intensive blood glucose control is crucial for managing diabetes mellitus.
• Understanding physicians' perspectives on the feasibility of intensive glycemic control is important.
• Effective diabetes education for healthcare professionals is essential for optimal patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a theoretical and practical teaching method for diabetes education.
• To assess internal medicine and endocrinology residents' knowledge and practical skills in diabetes management.
• To understand doctors' positions on the feasibility of intensive blood glucose control before and after the course.

Main Methods:

• A two-day diabetes immersion course was conducted for 48 internal medicine or endocrinology residents.
• Participants received training on self-blood glucose monitoring, insulin administration, and carbohydrate counting.
• Residents adopted a patient role to experience diabetes management, followed by questionnaire-based assessments.

Main Results:

• Knowledge assessment showed a significant increase from 61.2% to 73.2% (p < 0.0001).
• Post-course, a high percentage reported difficulties with carbohydrate counting (82.9%) and self-monitoring (80.8%).
• Correct medication adherence was 40.4%, and correct blood glucose monitoring was 36.1% after the course.

Conclusions:

• The immersive course methodology effectively disseminates diabetes knowledge.
• The experience increased physicians' sensitivity to the daily challenges faced by diabetes patients.
• The course highlights the complexities of adhering to intensive blood glucose control recommendations.