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Presenters at ADCES (pictured above, from left to right):
Sarah Homarchea, RD, MS, CDCES, BC-ADM, moderated the ADCES Conference Diabetes Entrepreneurs panel session, which was a hit!
With over 100 attendees and standing room only, we were pleasantly surprised with the incredible turnout. It reinforced just how much interest and appetite there is for entrepreneurship within our field.
We asked the panel of speakers, along with the panel moderator, Ms. Hormachea, to share their top pieces of wisdom for diabetes health care professionals who are thinking about starting their own side-hustle or consulting gig, each of the 4 panel members had some fantastic advice and insights to share.
www.sarahhormachea.com
As diabetes care and education specialists, our expertise is in high demand, but there are rarely enough of us to go around. Many clinics also lack the resources to bring that expertise on full-time. Entrepreneurship offers creative ways to bridge that gap, expanding access to high-quality diabetes care while creating new opportunities to use our expertise.
When I first ventured into entrepreneurship, it felt scary, uncertain, and largely uncharted. There was no playbook. I decided the best way to understand what was possible was to learn from those who had gone before me. Admittedly, my own desire to learn from the pros helped inspire the idea for an entrepreneurship panel, where I could ask the questions many of us want answered and perhaps uncover a few industry secrets along the way.
With that, I’m pleased to turn it over to our panelists to share their experiences, insights, and words of wisdom.
We asked the panelists to share 3 or 4 takeaways that they felt could most benefit diabetes healthcare professionals considering taking a dive into entrepreneurship. Here is what they said:
www.russpowellnutrition.com
1. Build the business model around the outcome you want your clients to reach, not around the format you are most comfortable delivering.
When I started my practice in 2019, I assumed one-to-one care was the only serious way to do clinical work. What I learned is that the delivery model has to match where the person actually is. Someone newly diagnosed and still in shock needs a different container than someone two years in who just wants a plan they can follow on their own. That is why my practice runs as a hybrid now, with one-to-one coaching through both insurance and private pay, a self-paced course, and group programming. The clinical standard does not change across those formats. What changes is the level of access, and pricing your work along that spectrum lets you serve more people without diluting the care or burning yourself out trying to be everywhere at once.
2. You do not have to jump without a net, and staying employed while you build is not a lack of commitment.
There is a story in entrepreneurial circles that the leap must be total and immediate. That story leaves out how many of us built something durable precisely because we were not making desperate decisions with our pricing or our client selection. While starting my practice, I held a corporate role while growing my business, and that stability let me say no to work that was not the right fit, invest in systems before I technically needed them, and let the business grow at a pace that made clinical sense. Build your runway, define your exit trigger using concrete numbers rather than feelings, and then move.
3. Your systems turn a practice into a business, and you should build them before you feel ready.
The clinical training we get is excellent. The business training is nearly nonexistent, so most of us learn operations the expensive way. The things that separated my practice from a very busy job were unglamorous: a documentation workflow I could actually sustain, clear standards for when clients hear back from me, insurance credentialing done correctly the first time, and written procedures for the tasks I repeat every week. Systems protect your time, and protecting your time is what makes you available for the deep clinical thinking your clients are actually paying you for. If you are waiting until you are big enough to need SOPs, you are already past the point where they would have saved you the most.
www.sorogi.com
Fifteen Years In, Still Learning
Fifteen years ago, I did the scariest thing I have ever done. I started a business.
I have never regretted it. Have I questioned it loudly, usually around 2 a.m? Yes. Being excellent at what you do and knowing how to build a business around it are two completely different skills. The first gets you in the door. The second is the actual job. Three things I wish someone had handed me on day one.
1. The business grows the leader, not just the craft
Whatever you are brilliant at is the entry ticket, not the job. The job is a set of skills the majority of us, as diabetes care and education specialists, were never taught.
2. Leverage is the whole game
The question stops being “how well can I do this?” and becomes “how does this happen a thousand times, without me in the room?” Three answers.
3. Sustainability is designed, not discovered
Burnout is not what happens when you work too hard. It is what happens when you never design for the long term.
www.DiabetesEd.net
I can’t think of a better way to capture the importance of authenticity – of knowing who you are, what you stand for, and staying true to those values as you build your business – than these wise words from Dolly Parton:
“Find out who you are and do it on purpose. And do it with purpose. Don’t ever sacrifice who you are, your principles and your morals and your values to just try to get ahead in business. It ain’t worth it.”
1. Let your purpose guide your decisions.
There will always be new opportunities, competing priorities, and plenty of advice about what you should do. Keep coming back to your why.
Ask yourself: Does this opportunity align with who I am, the people I want to serve, and the difference I want to make? Your purpose can be your compass when the path forward isn’t clear.
Coach Bev wisdom: “Pursue opportunities that align with your purpose.”
2. Stay curious—and treasure the people you serve.
Successful entrepreneurs need to build community and invest in people. Ask questions. Listen carefully. Pay attention to what people are struggling with, what they’re asking for, and what would make their lives better. Your customers will help you steer the ship in uncertain waters.
Coach Bev wisdom: “The greatest growth in my business has come not from marketing campaigns, but from listening to, learning from, and cherishing the community we serve.”
3. Learn the business of running a business.
You may be passionate about your work, but being an entrepreneur also means learning how to run a healthy business. Educate yourself about bookkeeping, budgeting, taxes, contracts, pricing, insurance, and cash flow. Know your numbers, understand where your money is coming from and where it’s going, and hire experts when you need them. You don’t have to become an accountant, but you do need to understand the financial health of your business.
Coach Bev wisdom: “Follow your passion—but know your numbers.”
4. Build something that reflects your values and be generous with information sharing.
Success isn’t only about revenue or growth. It’s about creating something you’re proud to put your name on. Treat people well, surround yourself with good humans, give back when you can, and make sure your work still brings you a sense of purpose and joy.
Coach Bev wisdom: “Build a business that makes a living—but also makes a difference.”
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
A 16-year-old with Type 1 Diabetes uses a CGM and has a Time in Range (70-180 mg/dL) of 72%, but their GMI (Glucose Management Indicator) is 7.4% and they report frequent serious hypoglycemic episodes during the night at least twice a week. What is the priority intervention?
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on applying the quadruple aim. 91% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it by clicking here.
A diabetes care and education specialist is evaluating a new program that includes group education visits, CGM data sharing, and team-based care coordination for adults with type 2 diabetes.
Answer A is incorrect. 3.45% chose this answer, “The program reduces A1C levels, increased access to care and increased provider workloads.” This answer is incorrect. While the program did achieve clinical outcomes it negatively impacted provider experience. This answer does not meet the Quadruple Aim, which requires balance across all four components.
Answer B is incorrect. 1.15% of you chose this answer, “The program improves patient satisfaction scores in 4 quadrants.” This answer is incorrect. While patient experience is improved, this answer represents a single-domain improvement rather than a system-level approach.
Answer C is correct. About 91.38% of respondents chose this: “The program enhances patient satisfaction, improves A1c and time in range, lowers healthcare costs and improves provider workload efficiency.” This answer is correct as it aligns with all four components of the Quadruple Aim: improved outcomes/population health (A1C/time in range), improved patient experience, reduced costs, and improved provider work life.
Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 4.02% chose this answer, “The program increases organizational leadership and improves appointment frequency, clinic revenue, and patient access.” This answer is incorrect. Increasing visit frequency may improve access or revenue, but it does not inherently address population health outcomes, patient experience, cost reduction, or provider well-being. In some cases, it may even contribute to provider burden if not designed thoughtfully
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
Author: Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES
Founder: Nutrition for Daily Living
Recognizing the importance of comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment, this article narrows in to review the newly recognized lipid screening strategies within the 2026 Dyslipidemia Guidelines from the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee.¹
For diabetes care professionals, these updates are especially relevant, as cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality in individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Current ADA Standards of Care recommend statin therapy for most adults aged 40–75 with diabetes, with treatment intensity guided by overall cardiovascular risk.
While a standard lipid profile remains the foundational marker in estimation of ASCVD risk (PREVENT-ASCVD equations), the 2026 Dyslipidemia guidelines² highlight that additional lipid measures that may provide a more complete assessment of individual atherogenic risk.
Specifically,
In the following sections, we will review what each of these lipid components represents and how they contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of cardiovascular risk.
Non-HDL is part of a standard lipid profile.
It represents all atherogenic, plaque-forming particles in the blood and correlates with ApoB.¹ It is easily calculated by subtracting high-density lipoprotein (HDL) from total cholesterol.
Non-HDL may add risk prediction beyond LDL, especially if triglycerides exceed 150 mg/dL, and is reported to be a better predictor of ASCVD risk than LDL.
Non-HDL Targets:
This threshold also applies to individuals with diabetes who have ASCVD or diabetes-specific risk factors.1 In those with subclinical or clinical atherosclerosis, an optional, even more intensive Non-HDL goal of <85 mg/dL is advised.¹
While LDL estimates the amount of cholesterol carried within LDL particles, apoB reflects the total number of atherogenic lipoproteins and provides a more direct measure of the number of atherogenic particles in circulation.
Each atherogenic particle, including LDL, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), intermediate-density lipoprotein, and Lp(a), contains a single apoB molecule,1 meaning apoB serves as a one-to-one marker of total particle number.4
In contrast, LDL particles vary in size and composition. Larger LDL particles tend to carry more cholesterol, while smaller, denser LDL particles carry less cholesterol per particle but are considered more atherogenic. These small, dense LDL particles easily penetrate the arterial wall, are more susceptible to oxidation, and have a longer circulating half-life, all of which increase their potential to promote atherosclerosis.5
An individual may have an LDL value at goal yet still have a high number of small, dense LDL particles and higher cardiovascular risk. This discordance is more common in individuals with ASCVD, cardiometabolic kidney syndrome, elevated triglycerides (>150 mg/dL), or diabetes.
In these cases, apoB can provide better insight into individual risk and therapeutic guidance. A higher particle number is strongly associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction and other ASCVD events.
ApoB goals for individuals with diabetes are stratified as follows:
The Dyslipidemia guidelines recommend that Lp(a) should be measured at least once in all adults to identify inherited cardiovascular risk.³
As diabetes care providers committed to person-centered care, the 2026 Dyslipidemia Guidelines emphasize additional assessment strategies (see footnote) to better individualize cardiovascular risk.
While achieving LDL targets remains an important therapeutic goal; incorporating non–HDL-C, apoB, and Lp(a) into lipid monitoring may help identify residual risk, particularly in individuals with diabetes, elevated triglycerides, or other cardiometabolic conditions.
With the ADA endorsing these guidelines, we are encouraged to consider when expanded lipid testing is appropriate, advocate for comprehensive risk assessment, and use these insights to guide shared decision-making for therapeutic interventions.
Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES
Founder: Nutrition for Daily Living
2026 Dyslipidemia Guidelines recommends use of CPR. Calculating 10 year risk using the PREVENT equation (https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements/prevent-calculator), Personalizing the estimated risk for the individual and Reclassifying and Reassessing treatment recommendations with additional tools such as the Coronary artery calcium.
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
Which individual with prediabetes would derive the greatest long-term benefit from the initiation of metformin therapy according to the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) outcomes?
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on the role of diabetes HCPs in addressing psychosocial needs. 95% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it by clicking here.
A 45 year old man with type 2 diabetes is referred to a CDCES with a persistently elevated A1c (9.4%). He has missed multiple follow-up appointments and reports inconsistent medication use. During the visit, he shares that he recently lost his job, is staying intermittently with friends, and often skips meals due to limited food access. He reports feeling “constantly stressed” and “burned out” with diabetes management. A Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS) score indicates moderate distress, and a PHQ-9 score is 4 (minimal depressive symptoms). He denies suicidal ideation.
Which of the following is the most appropriate next step for the diabetes healthcare professional?
Answer A is incorrect. 1.52% chose this answer, “Refer immediately to a psychiatrist for evaluation of and initiate pharmacologic treatment.” This answer is incorrect. The patient’s PHQ-9 score of 4 indicates minimal depressive symptoms, which does not warrant psychiatric referral or pharmacologic treatment.
Answer B is correct. 95.45% of you chose this answer, “Provide structured problem-solving support, address social needs, and coordinate with appropriate team members.” This answer is correct. This patient has moderate diabetes distress, minimal depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 = 4), and significant social barriers including food insecurity and housing instability.
Answer C is incorrect. About 0.76% of respondents chose this: “Delay intervention until glycemia improves, then reassess psychosocial concerns.” This answer is incorrect. Psychosocial factors and social barriers are contributing directly to this patient’s hyperglycemia, not as a result of it. Delaying intervention ignores key root causes of poor glycemic management. Addressing these factors is essential to improving outcomes.
Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 2.27% chose this answer, “Focus primarily on intensifying glucose monitoring and medication adherence strategies.” While important, this approach does not address food insecurity, housing instability, or emotional distress and burnout. Intensifying monitoring or adherence strategies alone is unlikely to be effective. Effective CDCES care prioritizes context and coordination, not just education or adherence.”
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Get exam-ready with confidence.
Course credits through AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
Full accreditation details are available on the registration page
Our CDCES Boot Camp Online Prep Bundle is a comprehensive, high-impact program built specifically for healthcare professionals preparing for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam who want to level up their clinical knowledge and skills.
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
For those of us working in diabetes care and education, it often feels more like a calling than a job. The relationships we build and the role we play in supporting behavior change make this deeply meaningful work.
At the same time, the field is evolving. Workforce shifts, changing care models, and growing demand are shaping what practice looks like today and where it is headed. The 2025 Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists National Practice Survey offers a timely snapshot of these trends, highlighting current roles, areas where clinicians need more support, and perspectives on the future of the profession.
As you think about your own career path, important questions emerge. What will job opportunities look like in the coming years? How might your clinical role evolve? Let’s explore key themes from the survey, including a few findings that may surprise you, and what they could mean for the future of diabetes care and education.
The 2025 National Practice Survey conducted by the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists was a national, quantitative survey designed to better understand the current diabetes care and education workforce.
Distributed online through ADCES and the Certification Board for Diabetes Care and Education, the survey assessed workforce characteristics, roles, practice settings, and evolving responsibilities, while also capturing perspectives on challenges, training needs, and the future direction of the profession.
The need for diabetes care and education specialists continues to rise alongside increasing rates of diabetes and prediabetes. At the same time, rapid advancements in technology, like CGM and AID systems, are reshaping care delivery. There is a growing need for clinicians who can interpret data and guide both patients and the healthcare team through increasingly complex treatment decisions.
While DSMES remains the core of the role, the scope of practice has expanded. Many diabetes care and education specialists are now involved in medication management, technology training, behavioral health support, and care coordination.
Future roles will likely require not only strong DSMES education skills, but also comfort with data, devices, and clinical decision-making, creating more diverse and specialized career pathways within the field.
Diabetes care and education specialists are increasingly seen as the go-to resource for diabetes technology, yet adoption is not consistent. While many are guiding patients on CGM, pumps, and data interpretation, fewer are using broader digital tools such as telehealth platforms, remote patient monitoring, or social media in practice.
This gap highlights a key opportunity. Clinicians who build skills in digital health, remote monitoring, and data-driven care will be well positioned for future job opportunities.
One of the most encouraging findings is that job satisfaction remains high, with the majority of respondents reporting they are satisfied in their roles. At the same time, time constraints, work-life balance, and keeping up with evolving technology were among the most commonly reported challenges.
This dual reality reflects a field that is deeply rewarding, but also demanding. Establishing a sustainable practice within a supportive environment will be key to long-term career success.
Another notable finding was the aging of the workforce and the number of professionals nearing retirement. A significant portion of the field has more than 20 years of experience, while relatively few are early in their careers. Nearly one-third of respondents plan to retire within five years, signaling a potential workforce gap on the horizon
While this suggests strong job opportunities for those entering the field, it also highlights a broader need for stronger career pipelines, mentorship, and greater visibility of the role within the profession.
The survey also highlights areas of future growth, including entrepreneurship, expanded clinical roles, and integration into broader cardiometabolic care. There is increasing emphasis on addressing social determinants of health, as well as providing behavioral and mental health support and integrating emerging tools like AI.
The field of diabetes care and education is expanding in both scope and impact. Clinicians who will thrive are those who are adaptable, curious, and willing to grow alongside the evolving needs of patients and healthcare systems.
Whether you are early in your career or more established, this is a moment of opportunity. The work remains deeply meaningful, but the way we deliver it is evolving. And if you are in this field, you likely know this is more than “just a job”.
You can read the full practice survey in The Science of Diabetes Self-Management and Care here:
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/26350106251401514
Sarah Hormachea, MS, RD, CDCES, BC-ADM
Owner & Consultant, Sarah Hormachea: Diabetes Care and Education, LLC
Sarah Hormachea is listed as a co-author on the 2025 ADCES National Practice Survey publication referenced in this article. She also serves as an elected member of the Board of Directors for the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists.
1. Brackney DE, Cantazaro M, Duker P, et al. The Diabetes Education Arena: Results of the 2025 ADCES National Practice Survey of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists. The Science of Diabetes Self-Management and Care. 2026;52(1):12-24. doi:10.1177/26350106251401514
Get exam-ready with confidence.
Course credits through AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
Full accreditation details are available on the registration page
Our CDCES Boot Camp Online Prep Bundle is a comprehensive, high-impact program built specifically for healthcare professionals preparing for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam who want to level up their clinical knowledge and skills.
This evidence-based study bundle is a comprehensive BC-ADM Boot Camp designed for advanced-level healthcare professionals preparing for the Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM) exam and will also provide you with state-of-the-art information to level up your clinical practice.
Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)
If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!
Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026
🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More
Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026
Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams
🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
📅
2-Day Conference
Oct 22–23, 2026
⏱️
15.5 Live CEs
+ 17 bonus CEs
🏅
CDCES & BC-ADM
Exam Prep + Renewal
📍
San Diego, CA
1.7 mi from airport
The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.
Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.
Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.
On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.
Read more below
📜 Essentials
Registration
+ Printed Syllabus
$559.00
🌟 Deluxe
Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book
$589.00
🏆 Complete – Best Value!
Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book
$669.00
Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.
Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?
The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.
In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.
You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!
A diabetes care professional is evaluating a new program that includes group education visits, CGM data sharing, and team-based care coordination for adults with type 2 diabetes.
Get exam-ready with confidence.
Course credits through AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!
Full accreditation details are available on the registration page
Our CDCES Boot Camp Online Prep Bundle is a comprehensive, high-impact program built specifically for healthcare professionals preparing for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam who want to level up their clinical knowledge and skills.
This evidence-based study bundle is a comprehensive BC-ADM Boot Camp designed for advanced-level healthcare professionals preparing for the Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM) exam and will also provide you with state-of-the-art information to level up your clinical practice.
Level 4 | Advanced Level | 14+ CEs
Advance your expertise in complex diabetes care!
Level 4 is designed for experienced healthcare professionals who want to deepen their knowledge of advanced diabetes topics or are preparing for BC-ADM certification. This 12-course series covers complex clinical scenarios, insulin calculations, pattern management, cardiorenal risk reduction, and person-centered care strategies—perfect for advancing your clinical practice and professional growth.
Join us for our first Level 4 course of the year
Type 2 Diabetes Intensive | 2.25 CEs
Master the pathophysiology, prevention, and person-centered management of type 2 diabetes.
This course provides a detailed overview of the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes, prevention strategies, and cardiovascular risk reduction. Through case studies and discussion, we highlight strategies to focus on a person-centered approach along with attention to psychosocial care for people living with diabetes
Join national experts including Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Beverly Thomassian (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig for high-impact, virtual learning—no travel required.
✔ Learn from National Experts — Anywhere
Get the same expert-level instruction you’d receive in person, delivered live to your home or office.
✔ 1-year Access
