Digital Commons Network^™

Examination Of The Association Between Patient Empowerment And Diabetes Management Among An Urban African American Population By Gender, Age, Socioeconomic Status And Education Level, Nyo Yamonn

Public Health Theses

Diabetes mellitus is a significant problem in the United States with the burden being greater in the African American population. Because diabetes is complex and costly, the importance of self-care management changes the disease management paradigm from “provider-centered” to patient-centered”. Empowerment is a possible solution for barriers to better diabetes management. Patient empowerment is helping patients discover and develop the inherent capacity to be responsible for their own life. Although patient empowerment is a valuable philosophy, there are gaps between the philosophy and actual practice. There are limited studies addressing the effectiveness of patient empowerment at improving diabetes management. Therefore, …