CODE is a structured group self-management education programme for people living with type 2 diabetes. It stands for Community Orientated Diabetes Education (CODE). It’s supported by the HSE and has been running since 2007. It’s a free online programme where participants can self-refer.
The programme aims to deliver general information about type 2 diabetes self-management in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
Each CODE programme consists of 4 sessions, the first 3 sessions are over 3 consecutive weeks, and the final session takes place 6 months later. Each session is 2-2.5 hours in duration.
It’s delivered virtually (Online) via the Zoom platform.
The sessions are facilitated by Diabetes Ireland healthcare professionals (HCP’s), a nurse or dietitian and kept to a maximum of 12 participants in a relaxed environment sharing and hearing people’s own experiences.
Our flexible collaborative approach allows the sessions to be tailored to meet the self-identified needs of each individual. The essence of the course is that individuals feel supported by others living with the same concerns so by the end of the 3 weeks participants feel more empowered about how to live well with type 2 diabetes.
Topics covered in CODE include:
- Understanding what happens in the body when diabetes is diagnosed
- Signs & symptoms/risk factors
- Understanding glucose levels and what causes highs and lows
- Healthy eating with advice on carbohydrates and serving sizes
- Movement and all its benefits
- Sleep stress and other factors which may contribute to glucose levels
- Understanding complications and how to prevent them
- Planning behaviour change and goal setting
- Importance of a regular annual review, and understanding the tests results
- Entitlements
- Supports & resources available
