Education results in learning. Studies have demonstrated this. Ongoing education of patients about self management is fundamental to good diabetes care. It is as indispensable as medical management. Changing or adopting self care behaviors is a result of many influences in addition to knowledge such as mental health, motivation, access to resources, social setting and competing life demands.
Some behaviors are more difficult to adopt than others.
Each self-care behavior is influenced by different factors. Medical care guidelines are available but not all medically recommended behaviors result in improved disease control. Some remain unproven. There are behavioral strategies available that have been tested and are effective. Use of them may require improved skill and knowledge of the provider.