It seems like new programs are arising every week. When it comes to diabetes, facilities, researchers, and diabetes educators are always trying to find new ways of approaching diabetes management and trying to establish new programs to make diabetes management a little easier.

When a child has diabetes, management can be tough. As a child, the last thing you want to be thinking about is when you have to take your medication and keeping track of how many carb and how much sugar you consumed in one day. For this reason, new programs are coming out to help children with their diabetes management and to help prevent the rise in diabetes in this group age.

An innovative new program for childhood diabetes has recently been launched at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Missouri.

A New Program Specifically for Children With Diabetes

This program is unique in the sense that it specifically targets children who have recently received a Type 1 diabetes diagnose and is designed to help them avoid hospital stays.

This program is called “Strategic Transition to Ambulatory New-Onset Diabetes Education,” which is referred to as STAND.

What is the Purpose of This Program?

Ryan McDonough who is the pediatric oncologist at this hospital talks about the idea behind this program. McDonough states that this program serves as a way for children ages 5 and older to avoid being admitted to the hospital and instead will receive a thorough education regarding topics such as maintaining healthy glucose levels, which will occur over the course of three outpatient visits.

The program was designed as a way to prevent any further strain on a family that is already shocked and stressed over a recent Type 1 diabetes diagnosis.

Is This Just the Start of New STAND Programs?

While Children’s Mercy Hospital may be the only one in the region using the STAND program, it may be just the beginning.

By providing education in a more relaxed environment, it’s possible that families may be more receptive to the training and education given as opposed to being stressed about having to stay overnight in the hospital.

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