RESUMO
An evaluation system needs to be developed to measure what has been achieved by the Lay Diabetes Education Programme, focusing on its impact at community level. For the 50 percent of volunteers who are from the health sector, this could be done through the structured assessment scheme of the health service. A different approach will be required for other volunteers. However, the programme is already making a positive impact, as indicated by reduced routine visits to tertiary care centres, as well as increased discussion of diabetes in public settings, such as parent-teacher meetings, church groups, and media talk shows! Volunteer diabetes educators should be armed with enough information to assist the patient in the everyday care of his/her condition and to encourage improved compliance, thus reducing the rate of development of complications. Volunteers should promote a positive outlook on diabetes, to help allay the fears of the anxious patient. They should always remember the volunteers' motto: "The greatest service that one can do is that of service to your fellow man. The greatest exercise for the heart is to reach out and help someone in need!" (AU)
