Diabetes Educator

The information described in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Other information:

Job Summary
The Diabetes Educator provides individualized diabetes self-management education/training to individuals or groups according to the Scope of Practice, Standards of Practice and Professional performance for Diabetes Educators. The information described in this job description has been designed to indicate the general nature of the work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Essential Functions
Collects DSME program participant assessment data, following departmental procedures, in a collaborative and ongoing manner. Performs new patient Intake Interviews. Collaboratively develops educational goals, learning objectives and a plan for educational content and teaching methods with each participant. Collaborates with primary care provider to provide appropriate education to each patient. Develops individualized follow-up plan with each program participant with provider and health care team to determine nutritional needs and diet restrictions of patient. Provides educational interventions that utilize primarily interactive, skill-based training methods and the use of interactive training methods. Explains and demonstrates safe and proper use of glucose monitoring equipment. Documents assessment data, educational plans and evaluation results in each participant’s educational records. Perform medical record documentation in an accurate and timely manner. Teaches patients in identified areas of need and selects appropriate educational resources. Works within scope of practice and identifies when a program participant needs are outside of defined scope of practice. Contributes to and participates in continuous quality improvement process to measure DSME program and to identify and address opportunities for improvement. Attends department and committee meetings as applicable. Staff is knowledgeable and demonstrates ability to comply with off-site emergency triage and transfer protocol. Maintains knowledge and best practices in alignment with Diabetes Standards of Medical Care. Complies with all SRH, departmental and location specific policies and procedures. Performs other duties as assigned by Director or designee.

Education
Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition Science or health related field of study, required.

Experience/Training
Minimum of 6 (six) months’ providing diabetes education in an accredited outpatient diabetes education program, required. Minimum of 6 (six) months’ experience of current diabetes treatment management, including use of Insulin Pumps, Continuous Glucose Monitors and report interpretation. Experience with public speaking / presentations and participation in community health targeted programs desired. One year experience in a diabetes-related health field optimal.

License/Certifications
Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES or CDE): certification required within 6 months of hire. Dietitian: Active and unrestricted Washington State Dietitian Certification, required. Active registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Medical Assistant Registered from Washington State Department of Health, preferred. Exercise Physiologist: Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist from American College of Sports Medicine, required. Medical Assistant Registered from Washington State Department of Health, preferred.

Other Skills
Knowledge of current ADA guidelines, diabetes management strategies including medications, and behavior change strategies. Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written form and have positive relationships with physicians, nursing personnel, other staff, patients and visitors. Ability to lead and effectively manage groups. Able to maintain productivity and calm demeanor in busy, patient-centered environment, characterized by frequent interruptions and adherence to schedule to maintain patient flow. Must be highly motivated and able to work independently. Experience with basic computer programs (email and internet). Knowledge of balance beam scale and/or electronic scale, blood glucose meters, sphygmomanometer and stethoscope and/or electronic BP machine, educational books, and patient teaching manual.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time; when working in office. Repetitive tasks such as typing, sitting, answering phones, and interacting with computers and computer systems most of the day is a function of the position. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to focus. This position requires working in an indoor, environmentally controlled environment when in the office. Available to work evenings and/or weekends and flex schedule to department needs, if requested.

Skagit Regional Health offers a comprehensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision, 457b/401a (retirement), long term disability, and paid time off to all employees holding an FTE of 20 or more hours per week. Eligible employees also receive sick time pay.