Its so frustrating.

After reading the two articles on the lack of diabetes educators in the nation, I thought I would throw my hat into the ring. I am a DN, health educator, a member of the NDEP for 8 years currently enrolled in SAIST and waiting for placment at Stanford protocol. And I take over 12 hours of CMEs in diabetes a year. I am a member of the AHMA which covers health and wellness education. Also a First Responder, and pharmacy tech.  Basically I have many bases covered.

I am also a diabetic and I wrote Factoring Diabetes.

So With all that and more, why are so many palces only wanting RNS? Why not go for professionals that were trained only in health and wellness education for pateints?

 With the current shortage, why are so many places picky as to  wanting only specifics. I found older programs than NCBDE and AADE certs, that many states prefer only to be shot down because I am not an RN. You would think that someone who has had lifeling practice with self managment, and is a health and wellness  educator devoted to Diabetes they would welcome that person.

And I know of others who are like me, with massive experience, only to be forced into other work bcause of the RN thing. Some of us have considered going  to  be an RN, but it seems futile.

Any thoughts?

Julia Sherman DN,rPhT, AHMA

I have no health care background (other than as a recipient), but I do have a professional background in an education field and have a long history with type 1. It seems like I'd be able to contribute/help in some way. Anyone know what opportunities there might be, and what might be required?

"hello all,

I am a person who has worked in the health food stores for many years and talked with many diabetics. I am curious what kind of research has been done on the "pre-diabetics" story?

I think so many people with blood sugar issues are in fact pre diabetic and do not know about it. The North American diet is so full of sugars and not enough good fermented foods to keep the intestinal flora healthy.

clean air...