The VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS) has been awarded a grant for a diabetes program in American Samoa. Called Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES), the program focuses on helping Veterans with diabetes—and their families—manage healthy eating, medication, monitoring, coping, and other lifestyle considerations.
“The DSMES program is nationally recognized by the American Diabetes Association,” said Certified Diabetes Nurse Jessica Taylor-Spurrier. “We are excited to meet Veterans in American Samoa, talk with them, and share this amazing program, which has shown positive results in other VA locations. We hope to bring that success to American Samoa and help Veterans lead their best possible lives.”
Certified diabetes nurses will travel to American Samoa to meet with Veterans in person from May 6, 2025, to May 12, 2025. Veterans who would like to participate should call 684-699-3730, press option 2 to make an appointment, then press option 1 to use the automated system. Veterans can follow the prompts to complete the scheduling process. During initial meetings, diabetes nurses will speak with individual Veterans about their diabetes management and enroll them in the group portion of the program. The success of this pilot could help expand diabetes services and education for Veterans across the Pacific Islands.
VAPIHCS already provides education and support for Veterans with diabetes, but this DSMES program is unique because it is family-focused. Veterans are encouraged to bring family members with them to classes to expand knowledge throughout the community and ensure ongoing support in managing this chronic condition.
Many people with diabetes live full and healthy lives, and VAPIHCS hopes to ensure that Veterans in American Samoa feel empowered and in control of their health.
