Authors: American Association of Diabetes Educators
A complex set of social, political, historical, environmental, cultural and behavioral factors influence both the management of type 2 diabetes and the sustainability of diabetes self-care practices. No single set of interventions is capable of addressing all of these influences. Rather, multiple approaches that include education, social support, and community programs are needed. These approaches should also be directed at multiple levels, including individuals, families, communities, healthcare providers, and policy makers. To strengthen the links between healthcare providers and community members, many health promotion and diabetes programs are engaging community health workers (CHW). CHWs understand the cultural buffers, such as cultural identity, spiritual coping, and traditional health practices that can help community members cope with stress and promote positive health outcomes. A critical asset of programs that engage CHWs is that they build on already existing community network ties that contribute to the acceptance and sustainability of effective community programs.
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Resource Topic: CHW Role, Chronic conditions, Community Health Workers/Volunteers, Prevention
Resource Type: Issue papers
Year: 2011
Region:
Country: United States of America
Publisher May Restrict Access: No