Diabetes Educator

Appalachian Regional Healthcare•Lexington, KY

20h

About The Position

The Licensed Diabetes Educator (LDE) is responsible for delivering high-quality, evidenced-based diabetes self-management education and support (DSME) to individuals and groups across the service area. This role combines direct patient education, community outreach, and program support, with a strong emphasis on improving access to diabetes care, reducing health disparities, and supporting patients in both clinical and community-based settings. The LDE will work collaboratively with interdisciplinary healthcare teams and community partners while representing the diabetes program at outreach events and educational activities.

Requirements

Graduate of accredited program of nursing, dietetics, and/or pharmacy.
Valid active license based on state of practice as a Dietitian (must be registered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration), or Registered Nurse, or Registered Pharmacist
Strong communication, teaching, interpersonal skills, learning principles of diabetes management and the ability to apply those theories
Basic computer skills including use of Microsoft Office
Evidence of clinic expertise in the practice of diabetes management
Has working knowledge of diabetes technology
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Must be self-directed, able to communicate clearly in writing and verbally, and effectively influence others to achieve necessary outcomes
Demonstrate ability to facilitate a working environment conducive to change, enabling positive outcomes in a highly complex system
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as required
Familiarity with rural health, population health, or health equity initiatives
Experience with electronic medical records and data tracking
Experience with community-based education or outreach programs

Nice To Haves

Licensed Diabetes Educator, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist or BC-ADM credential preferred/eligible. If not already a Licensed Diabetes Educator, Diabetes Care and Education Specialist or BC-ADM, will receive licensure or certification within 12 months of hire date
Diabetes education, chronic disease management, or patient education experience preferred

Responsibilities

Provide individualized and group diabetes self-management education and support in accordance with national standards and evidence-based guidelines
Assess patients’ educational needs, health literacy, cultural factors, and readiness to change
Develop, implement, and document personalized education plans and goals
Educate patients on topics including, but not limited to: o Blood glucose monitoring o Medication management (including insulin and non-insulin therapies) o Nutrition and meal planning o Physical activity o Problem-solving and risk reduction o Prevention of diabetes-related complications
Document education encounters accurately and timely in the electronic medical record
Implement the standards of DSMES
Participate in quality improvement initiatives and program evaluation activities
Maintain licensure and required continuing education to meet regulatory, accreditation, and professional standards
Facilitating a seamless transition across the continuum of care including, but not limited to, the ambulatory setting
Communicates effectively with others in an honest, direct, and respectful manner which preserves all participants’ self esteem
Conduct diabetes education sessions in community settings such as schools, churches, worksites, senior centers, and support groups
Participate in health fairs, screening, and community events to promote diabetes awareness and prevention
Assist with planning, implementing, and evaluating community-based diabetes programs and support groups
Build and maintain relationships with community partners, referral sources, and stakeholders
Support outreach efforts focused on underserved and rural populations
Travel to various clinics and community locations within the service area as needed
Maintain flexibility to adjust schedule based on outreach activities, events, and patient needs
Collaborate with support departments including physicians, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to provide quality services to enhance patient care
Collaborate and assist with compliance with policies, procedures, and standards for the hospital, ambulatory services, and other accredited and licensing agencies
Serve as a resource for staff regarding diabetes education and best practices
Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development activities
Must represent the diabetes program in a professional and positive manner at all times
And other duties as assigned