Expanding Diabetes Self-Management Education to Address Health-Related Social Needs

A Qualitative Feasibility Study

Bibliographic Data

ID15465140
AuthorsNiko Verdecias-Pellum (0000-0001-5204-6017, Arizona State University, corresponding author), Gianna D’Apolito (0009-0002-0366-0154, Arizona State University), Abby M Lohr (0000-0002-7931-1308, Mayo Clinic in Florida), Aliria Muñoz Rascón (0000-0002-8396-9399, Arizona State University), Kelly N B Palmer (0000-0002-4818-6030, University of Alabama at Birmingham)
Year2026
Volume23
Issue1
Pages88-88
Publication date2026-01-08
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1661-7827 • E-ISSN: 1660-4601
PublisherMultidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3390/ijerph23010088
PMID41595882
OpenAlexW7119516824
LanguageEN
References cited36

Diabetes self-management education (DSME) programs are evidence-based interventions that improve glycemic control and self-care behaviors, yet their effectiveness may be limited by unaddressed health-related social needs (HRSN) (e.g., food insecurity, housing or utility instability, transportation barriers). This qualitative multiple case study examined the feasibility of integrating HRSN assessments into DSME delivery within three community-based organizations (CBOs) across urban and rural U.S. settings. Guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 DSME facilitators and program leadership to identify contextual factors influencing implementation. Findings revealed that while DSME's structured, manualized design promotes fidelity and client autonomy, it constrains responsiveness to the client's HRSN. Facilitators expressed openness to integrating HRSN screening, particularly during intake, yet cited limited infrastructure, role clarity, and training as key barriers. CBOs were recognized as trusted, accessible spaces for holistic care, but growing expectations to address HRSN without adequate resources for referral created sustainability concerns. Participants recommended a parallel support model involving navigators or community health workers to manage HRSN screening and referrals alongside DSME sessions. Integrating HRSN assessment processes into DSME may enhance engagement, reduce attrition, and extend the reach of diabetes education to populations most affected by HRSN. However, successful implementation requires dedicated funding, workforce development, and cross-sector coordination. Findings underscore the importance of supporting CBOs as critical partners in bridging diabetes education and social care to advance whole-person, chronic disease management

Capacity building · Health care · Program evaluation · Psychological intervention · Qualitative research · Referral · Social determinants of health · Workforce · Workforce development · Diabetes Management and Education · Food Security and Health in Diverse Populations · Health Policy Implementation Science

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