The Role of Online Communities in Diabetes Management Using social networking to improve self-care and standards of care

Diabetes is a chronic condition Daily management is the patients responsibility Effective management is not one size fits all Chronic Disease Begets Social Isolation Family and social circles unaccommodating The only one I know with this condition

Patient-Based Online Communities Reduce Social Isolation Support with/from people with similar medical issues Classic support groups evolved into the digital space No limitations of time, distance, or mobility

Attractions of Patient-Based Online Communities Social connectedness Tailored Information News Medical and psychological management Dealing with medical professionals and insurance companies Anonymity Can hide behind a username

Special Features of Diabetes Communities Groups and Forums Often arranged by medical interests (e.g. Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, etc.) Experts may be available to respond to posts Featured/Expert/Personal Blogs Live chat Topical chats may feature subject- matter experts

Tailored news and reviews Devices, medications, and publications Research Recipes and Nutrition Events and Activities Real life meet-ups, diabetes expos, conferences Activism Special Features of Diabetes Communities

External links Diabetes advocacy organizations News and Blogs Manufacturers sites Patient Assistance Programs Diet- and Diabetes- Management Sites Special Features of Diabetes Communities

Diabetes Online Communities A number of diabetes communities, social networks, blogs, portals, and support sites can be found at the Diabetes OCDiabetes OC

dLife Website: None of us really want to face this disease alone… with finding this community, I am no longer scared and alone… --a dLife user

TuDiabetes Website: So far, it's the only place I've found where wonderful people have answered my questions, and made me feel less alone. I've learned more in the short time I've been a member than any of the doctors explained at diagnosis… --a TuDiabetes member

EsTuDiabetes Website:

Diabetic Rockstar Web site: …Everyone is supportive of one another, without the "oh you poor thing" nonsense that you might expect in other places... What I've needed is to know that there are other people who know what it's like to deal with all of this diabetic stuff that I've had to get accustomed to … --a Diabetic Rockstar

Diabetic Connect Web site: Being part of this site has saved my life, of that I am sure. --a Diabetic Connect member

Diabetes Talkfest Web site: kfest.com kfest.com Web site: Juvenation

Diabetes Daily Web site:

Children With Diabetes Web site:

Results Diabetes-focused online communities and social networks provide the following services: Reducing social isolation Educating patients and their caregivers Improving patient-doctor-insurer communication The results are improved mental health, patient compliance, and long-term patient health