How to Become a Credentialled Diabetes Educator
Written by Carolien Koreneff, CDE-RN for Diabetes Qualified
We receive many requests at Diabetes Qualified on how people can become a Diabetes Educator. Carolien Koreneff, a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (and mentor for up and coming CDEs) outlines the steps involved.
What is a Diabetes Educator?
A diabetes educator is a healthcare professional who assists those with diabetes. They empower people to effectively self-manage the care and treatment of their diabetes or prediabetes.
A good way to start your journey towards becoming a diabetes educator is by doing the Diabetes Qualified Diabetes Essentials course.
Diabetes Essentials is a comprehensive learning program which covers all aspects of diabetes; from diagnosis to management. This online interactive course will provide you with the latest best practice information on diabetes including the pathophysiology of diabetes, diabetes management principles, and prevention of complications.
Although endorsed for 12 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) by the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA), the Diabetes Essentials course does not lead to credentialing as a diabetes educator.
What is a Credentialled Diabetes Educator® (CDE)? 1
A CDE is a health professional who has been recognised by the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) for their specialist knowledge and professional development in the field of diabetes education.
CDE status is recognised by: Medicare Australia, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and by some private health insurers. CDE is a registered trademark.1
Credentialling is a detailed and rigorous process designed to uphold the integrity of the CDE status. To be recognised and maintain CDE status, you must demonstrate ongoing participation in professional development within the specialty of diabetes education.
A CDE may be a: registered:
- Nurse (RN or Division One)
- Midwife
- Medical Practitioner
- Pharmacist
- Podiatrist
- Physiotherapist
Or an accredited:
- Practising Dietitian
- Exercise Physiologist
How to obtain Initial Credentialling in six steps?
Step 1 | Register with the ADEA for full ADEA membership |
Step 2 | Complete a Graduate Certificate in diabetes education and management |
Step 3 | Complete 1000 hours practice in diabetes education |
Step 4 | Undertake a minimum six months mentoring |
Step 5 | Undertake 20 hours CPD per year |
Step 6 | Provide a referee report |
If you would like to know more about credentialling as a CDE, please contact the ADEA Membership Team on 02 6173 1000 or via email to cde@adea.com.au.