SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/diab-dsmes-critical-times

When is diabetes self-management education and support especially important?

At diagnosis, yearly, with complications, and during transitions.

Start playing free

  1. At four critical times ✔
  2. Only on the first day
  3. Only after retirement

Why: DSMES is ongoing, not a one-time class. ADA highlights diagnosis, yearly review or missed goals, complicating factors, and transitions in life or care.

Huh, didn't know that: ADA says DSMES supports decisions, self-care skills, problem-solving, and teamwork.

The dad joke
Why did diabetes education return each year? Learning likes a refresher course.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: At four critical times. DSMES is ongoing, not a one-time class. ADA highlights diagnosis, yearly review or missed goals, complicating factors, and transitions in life or care.

  1. ADA Standards of Care 2026, Section 5 pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12690188
    Provide DSMES at diagnosis, annually and/or when not meeting treatment goals, when complicating factors develop (e.g., medical, functional, and psychosocial), and when transitions in life and care occur.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Health BasicsHow much toothpaste should you use?Health BasicsHow much sleep does a healthy adult need each night?Health BasicsWhen should you turn off screens before bed?

That's stuff everyone should know.