I. General Summary

Under general supervision, assesses, plans, implements and evaluates the diabetes education program at the Joslin Diabetes Center at UMMS. Plans and conducts continuing education programs in diabetes for allied professionals and the general public. Functions as a resource for patients and other healthcare professionals within and outside the Medical Center.

II. Principal Responsibilities and Tasks

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

1. Applies clinical process and education of patients and families including assessing needs of patient, formulating an educational plan, implementing the plan, and revision as needed.
2. Communicates information and coordinates patient care with appropriate members of the health care team.
3. Proficiently utilizes a variety of educational approaches including one-on-one instruction, group classes, and audio visual presentations.
A. Delivers educational services in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
B. Assists with support groups and continuing education programs for patients and community.
4. Acts as a resource in diabetes related issues for health care professional, patients and their families.
5. Maintains a positive relationship with staff, patients, physicians, and hospital personnel.
6. Assists in medical management of patients in accordance with policies and procedures.
7. Coordinates participation in research programs and studies, as assigned.
8. Ensures that the clinical education components of the program meet the quality assurance standards as established the Center and hospital.
9. Participates in referral development activities that contribute to the growth of the practice.
10. Follows appropriate policies, procedures and lesson plans, as provided by the Joslin Center - Boston, and assists with review and revision on an annual or as-needed basis.
11. Attends educational programs and seminars focusing on the management of diabetes and related
problems, and diabetes education.

12. Performs related duties as required.

III. Qualifications

1. A Bachelor's degree in healthcare related discipline or equivalent is required.

2. Certification as a Diabetic Educator (CDE) is preferred.

3. A minimum of two years experience in diabetes care and education is required. One year in a community health or ambulatory care setting is preferred.

4. Ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on the assigned unit. The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's requirements relative to his or her age-specific needs and to provide the care needed as described in the unit/area/department policies and procedures.

5. Highly effective verbal and written communication skills are necessary in order to educate patients and their families and work with medical, nursing and management staff. Must have demonstrated ability in public speaking.

IV. Working Conditions

1. Weekend, shift work, holiday, evening, on-call, and overtime may be required.
2. Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment, but also requires contact and work with staff in a clinical setting.

V. Patient Safety

Ensures patient safety in the performance of job functions and through participation in hospital, department or unit patient safety initiatives.

1. Takes action to correct observed risks to patient safety.
2. Reports adverse events and near misses to appropriate management authority.
3. Implements policies, procedure, and standards consistently in the performance of assigned duties.
4. Develops effective working relationships and maintains good communication with other team members.
5. Identifies possible risks in processes, procedures, devices and communicates the same to those in charge.