Diabetes Educators
Certified Diabetes Educators (CDE’s) are health-care professionals that are specialized and certified to assist people with diabetes management. They are trained in prevention, early identification, and optimal management of diabetes through professional education, accessible support and consultation, advocacy, and research. Typically a CDE is also a nurse, dietitian, pharmacist, or social worker and may work in a variety of settings including hospitals, doctor’s offices, chronic disease management centers and pharmacies. You may have multiple educators as part of your healthcare team.
What to look for in an Educator?
A Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) is a healthcare professional with a passion for diabetes education. This professional is an expert in diabetes care, management, and education, and has excellent communication skills. A good diabetes educator cares about you and your diabetes and is sensitive to your goals and needs. They will assist you in making informed decisions about your health and diabetes. Diabetes is a lifelong journey so it is helpful if your educator is easily accessible along the way.
How to find an Educator in your Area
Your doctor or endocrinologist may refer you to a CDE working in their office, in a diabetes education program or in your community. You can also seek out a CDE yourself. One of the most accessible resources is your community pharmacy. Ask if they have a CDE on staff and book an appointment. Other members of your healthcare team may be able to recommend an experienced educator upon request.
Community Pharmacist CDE Program
C-endo Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic supports a mentorship program for community pharmacist CDE’s. The program aims to increase access to qualified diabetes education services to all individuals with diabetes in Alberta. As the program expands throughout the province, we will be able to provide a comprehensive list of individuals that meet the desired criteria of a community educator in your area.