Diabetes Education Tailored Towards English Speaking Caribbean Immigrants

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing among persons of Caribbean ancestry in the United States, yet there is little research on the differences in the health and nutrition patterns of diabetics from this population. This study created a culturally-sensitive diabetes education program for the staff of an internal medicine practice that treated patients from the English-speaking Caribbean. The project was guided by the health belief model, as well as Leininger\u27s theory of transcultural nursing. Methodology of project had a quality improvement focus. The comprehensive curriculum included diabetes medications, physical activity, culturally-tailored medical nutrition therapy, complications, self-care behavior, problem solving, and goals. Tools incorporated into the program included DVD, self-learning power point modules, and staff and patient education materials. The diabetes education program was introduced to 16 members of the internal medicine staff, chosen by the physician. A question and answer session was included, during which medical personnel articulated satisfaction with the program. Also verbalized was their increased understanding of diabetes education, and medical nutrition therapy tailored towards English-speaking Caribbean diabetics. The implication for social change indicates that in order for patients of the target population to receive quality, culturally-specific diabetes education, medical personnel must receive structured culturally-tailored diabetes education. Education translated into evidence-based patient education and practices. Program evaluation can be undertaken by monitoring staff and patient satisfaction, and improved patients\u27 hemoglobin A1C