Mapping a Plan to Blood Glucose Control and Diabetes Management

The UMass Memorial Diabetes Center of Excellence (DCOE) offers an extensive self-management education program recognized by the American Diabetes Association. It’s designed to provide information, motivation, and support. Diabetes educators at UMass Memorial utilize Conversation Maps to help individuals make lifestyle changes, such as adopting healthy eating habits, managing medication, engaging in physical activity, and addressing other relevant topics. 

Diabetes Conversation Maps

Conversation Maps® are designed to promote interactive discussion among people living with diabetes in small-group settings. Each map addresses a different topic area to assist with self-management. 

”The visual aspect of the Conversation Maps® has been found to encourage interaction among those attending our education workshops,” said Cheryl Barry, RN, CDCES, Manager of Diabetes Education at UMass Memorial. “The maps help empower people to control their diabetes more effectively through self-management."

Lowering A1c with Diabetes Education

Diabetes education has proven to lower A1c by as much as 2% (similar to adding a medication but without the side effects). Research indicates that individuals who receive diabetes education are more likely to adhere to prescribed medication regimens and effectively manage their blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. As a result, those people have lower health costs.

The American Diabetes Association recommends at least 10 hours of diabetes education. Medicare benefits include 10 hours of initial education plus two hours of follow-up each year. Commercial insurance offers similar benefits. More than half of the 38 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes have not taken advantage of the benefits of diabetes education.

Patient Success Story: Kevin Brady

Kevin was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in his mid-50s. At first, he didn’t take it seriously because he didn’t feel sick. Five years later, he was taking diabetes medication but wasn’t consistently monitoring or managing his blood sugars.

Over time, Kevin developed neuropathy in his feet and numbness in his hands. His medication dosage increased, but his blood sugars continued to rise. Eventually, he developed liver and heart problems. When his doctor explained that uncontrolled blood sugar was the cause, Kevin decided it was time to make a change.

Kevin was referred to the UMass Memorial Diabetes Center of Excellence introductory diabetes education workshop. He found it different from past experiences because it was practical, interactive, and focused on real-life strategies—not just a list of instructions.

With healthier eating and regular exercise, Kevin lost 40 pounds. His energy improved, and he was able to keep his blood sugar within his target range while still enjoying favorite foods in moderation. When Kevin first met diabetes educator Cheryl Barry, his A1c was 8%. He lowered it to 6% and has maintained it.

Kevin learned how carbohydrates affect blood sugar, how to read nutrition labels, and the basics of portion sizes and carb counting. Planning became a major part of his success, including a daily meal plan and strategies for eating out.

Today, Kevin’s liver and cardiac issues are under control, his blood pressure has normalized, his neuropathy has improved, and he’s taking less medication. Now in his 60s, he says he feels motivated to stay healthy for the long run.

Register for Education Workshops 

Ask your physician or diabetes care team to provide a referral for either a group education workshop or a one-on-one education appointment. For more information about the Diabetes Education Program email: cheryl.barry@umassmemorial.org or call (508) 334-3206.

Diabetes Education Resources

These videos and informational resources cover a wide variety of self-management topics for all people living with diabetes and their families