Filling the Gaps Between Patients and Professionals

Abstract

Diabetes educators face a unique and challenging task in pro viding patients with the motiva tion and skills they need to make sound judgments and decisions regarding their treatment. Care ful assessment reveals gaps between the patient and profes sional that can ultimately influence the outcome of treat ment. Such gaps may include cultural differences, differing expectations and priorities, lack of knowledge and expertise, and different understandings about patients' rights to choice.