Diabetes Educator

About the Role

Provides care following the National Standard for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) as defined by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) or Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (ADCES). Assess patient learning needs, goals, and barriers to care, and tailor educational interventions accordingly.

Responsibilities

• Lead individual and group education sessions on diabetes management, including medication, nutrition, exercise, and blood glucose monitoring.
• Provide formal instruction on diabetes management to patients (inpatient and/or outpatient).
• If a Registered Dietitian, provide medical nutrition therapy services for patients with diabetes or other referring diagnoses.
• Provide ongoing support and follow-up to ensure successful management of diabetes or other referring diagnoses.
• Maintain knowledge of diabetes management technology and manufacturer protocols.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop and implement comprehensive care plans.
• Under provider order with proven competencies and within departmental policy, adjust diabetes medications per protocol.
• Stay current on developments in diabetes care and education, ensuring compliance with ADA standards.
• Document and charge for services provided consistent with CMS and payor requirements and guidelines for DSMT and MNT services.
• Serve as a health resource to the community by participating in community events and coordinating support meetings.
• Participate in the development and evaluation of patient education programs and materials.
• Act as a resource for healthcare providers, patients, and the community.

Qualifications

• Current license or certification to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Dietitian in the applicable state.
• Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) preferred; if not certified, must obtain certification within 2-3 years.
• Degree in Nursing, Dietetics, or other related disciplines that meet CDCES certification eligibility requirements.
• If nursing degree, BSN preferred.
• Master's degree in Dietetics required if Dietitian license obtained after 01/01/2024.

Experience

• 2 years of patient-oriented educational experience preferred, with a broad range of knowledge on diabetes for age-appropriate populations and its interrelation to co-existing health conditions.

Skills

• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Organizational and effective time management skills.
• Flexibility to adapt to changes in daily routine.
• Skills in public speaking (or potential to develop) for group/education classes or professional speaking opportunities.
• Self-directed.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Clean, well-lit, comfortable environment.
• Possible exposure to infections and contagious diseases.
• Possible/occasional exposure to patient illnesses.
• Occasionally subject to irregular hours.