U.S.: Diabetes patients credit coaching program with helping them understand, manage condition

U.S. think-tank the Urban Institute examined a model in which coaches use motivational interviewing to educate clients about their chronic disease and help them improve their nutrition, medication adherence, physical activity, stress management and engagement with primary care providers. Coaches are hired locally, receive intensive training and consult with a registered dietitian or diabetes educator and a social worker. The clients were usually effusive in their praise and said coaching helped them better understand and manage their condition. They focused on teaching clients how to eat healthier and most clients reported lowered blood sugar levels while feeling better physically and emotionally.