MCT2D Learning Community Event: An Overview of Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support
Updated: 11/02/26
Watch the Recorded Talk
October 23, 2026
In October 2026, the learning community webinar featured Pamela Milan, MBA, RDN, CDCES, Director of Diabetes Care Connection Services within Populance, Henry Ford Health’s population health management division.
Pamela Milan presented on Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) services, covering clinical and psychological benefits, national standards, and referral guidelines. She shared that only 5% of Medicare beneficiaries and 6.8% of privately insured patients are currently referred to DSMES programs, despite evidence showing average A1C reductions of 0.34% and other benefits. Pamela explained the four critical times for referral: at diagnosis, annually when goals are unmet, when complicating factors develop, and during life or care transitions. She discussed the importance of person-centered care, multidisciplinary teams, and the seven core health behaviors for diabetes management. The presentation included coverage information for Medicare and Michigan Medicaid, noting that up to 10 hours of initial education and 2 hours of follow-up education can be covered under certain plans.
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Support for The Michigan Collaborative for Type 2 Diabetes (MCT2D) is provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan as part of the BCBSM Value Partnerships program.
Although Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and MCT2D work collaboratively, the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of BCBSM or any of its employees.
