Understanding Barriers and Facilitators to Participating in Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Services From Multiple Perspectives: Results of a Mixed-Methods Study of Medicaid Members, Medicaid Managed Care Organizations, and Providers in New York State

This study sought to understand the barriers to and facilitators of diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) referrals and participation from multiple perspectives in New York. Two common barriers emerged: lack of awareness of DSMES services and limited access to DSMES services. Strategies that could improve DSMES referrals and participation include provider education, outreach to eligible patients, and tailoring of DSMES services to meet participants' cultural needs and preferences. Future research is needed to assess the effectiveness of multicomponent strategies to increase DSMES participation in diverse populations.