TYPE-2 DIABETES - PATIENT EDUCATION AND HOME BLOOD-GLUCOSE MONITORING- PART 3 OF A 3-PART ROUND-TABLE DISCUSSION

Successful treatment of type 2 diabetes requires the interaction of th e patient, his or her family, and a variety of healthcare professional s. Education is the most powerful tool doctors have to convince patien ts, especially those who are asymptomatic, of the serious complication s that can result from uncontrolled diabetes. Home blood glucose monit oring is a key to the doctor-patient partnership. Physicians may have to consider a patient's cultural and dietary customs in developing a m anageable program of weight loss, diet, and physical activity, the mos t effective forms of treatment. Referrals should be made to local diab etes organizations with patient support programs, when available. Pati ent empowerment and education are key to effective management.