Diabetes educator licensing bill advanced by Shackleford now ready for final approval

Press Release

Continuing her focus on health care matters throughout the 2014 session, State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) has played a key role in the passage of legislation that will license diabetes educators.

The Indiana Senate approved a conference committee report on Senate Bill 233 this week, which includes Shackleford's language that will implement the necessary legal modifications to change diabetes educators from a certified position to a licensed position. The measure now moves to the governor's desk for final approval.

Rep. Shackleford explains the public health impact of Senate Bill 233 in this 41-second audio file.

"The passage of this bill is a huge victory because we were able to secure the governor's support, and move forward in promoting health care as a priority for all Hoosiers," said Shackleford.

According to Shackleford, this change will give more credibility to those healthcare professionals and educators who tirelessly work to improve diabetes care.

"Diabetes is a serious healthcare concern for 540,000 Hoosiers who are afflicted with this illness," Shackleford said. "We want to make sure those affected receive the proper information and care from licensed professionals.

"It's important to maintain high standards when it comes to health services in Indiana. That's why licensure is important," she continued.

The Medical Licensing Board (MLB) would be charged as the governing body for diabetes educator licensing and would charge a biannual licensing fee to approved applicants who meet the specified requirements.

"Diabetes education is a collaborative process through which people with or at risk for diabetes gain the knowledge and skills needed to modify their behavior and successfully self-manage diabetes and conditions related to the illness," said Shackleford.

An applicant must provide evidence to the board showing successful completion of either the American Association of Diabetes Educators core concepts course with demonstrable experience in the care of individuals with diabetes ,the credentialing program of the American Association of Diabetes Educators, the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators or an equivalent program as determined by the board.

"The bipartisanship that advanced this bill makes sure that the thousands of Hoosiers affected by diabetes receive the proper information and care from licensed professionals, in order to address this distressing health concern," Shackleford concluded.

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