Enhanced Diabetes Self Management Using Peer Health Coaches
Principal Investigator: Kathleen Tarr, M.D., Ph.D.
January 1, 2001 - June 30, 2002

Study Question:
Can peer coaches contribute to improved diabetes management, patient-physician communication, and metabolic control?

Objectives:
· To increase physician knowledge and adherence to ADA standards of care through education and tools.
· To improve communication between physicians and patients who have diabetes.
· To improve diabetes self-management among patients.
· To decrease morbidity and mortality from diabetes

Study Methodology:
An interactive teaching session will take place for one physician group, who will also receive a pocket card with an outline of current diabetes care guidelines. Peer coaches will be trained to support patients in various aspects of diabetes self-management. Patients with diabetes will be randomly assigned to receive peer coaching or no coach. The no coach group will serve as controls for the coaching intervention. Patients with diabetes seen in a second physician group who will not receive the training (usual care) will serve as controls to test the effects of physician education.