Certified diabetes educator

A Certified diabetes educator (CDE) is a health care professional who is specialized and certified to teach people with diabetes how to manage their condition.

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Typically the CDE is also a nurse or dietitian who has further specialized in diabetes expertise. Formal education and years of practical experience are required, in addition to formal examination, before a diabetes educator is certified. In the US, certification is awarded by the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators. In Canada, certification is awarded by the Canadian Diabetes Association.

The CDE is an invaluable asset to those who need to learn the tools and skills necessary to control their blood sugar and avoid long-term complications due to hyperglycemia. Unlike an endocrinologist, the CDE can spend as much time with a newly diagnosed person as is needed both for educational purposes and emotional support.

References

• American Association of Diabetes Educators

• National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators

• The American Diabetes Association

• The Canadian Diabetes Association