THE ROLE OF THE PATRONAGE SERVICE IN THE PREVENTION, DETECTION AND TREATMENT OF DIABETES MELLITUS AMONG THE POPULATION IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SHTIP

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide and requires ongoing management and attention. This metabolic disorder can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. Therefore, education plays a key role in encouraging patients with diabetes to take control of their health and improve their quality of life. By understanding the disease, learning about effective strategies, and leading a healthy lifestyle, patients can significantly reduce their risk of complications and have a normal life. First, it is necessary to understand the disease itself, and this is achieved by providing educational materials in simple language or to ensure accessibility. The medical professional can also use models or diagrams to show how insulin works in the body and what happens in diabetes as a disease.
The activity of the patronage service today is primarily preventive, educational and informative, with the task of collecting necessary data for the health protection of the population in the Municipality of Shtip. The most common measures taken by patronage services are the organization and introduction of better quality health promotion and prevention. All these measures and procedures are implemented by nurses and technicians through various health counseling centers, both individual and group, as well as education through cooperation with other services in the social environment, and part of the health system that they operate, manage and successfully educate.
The community nurse plays a crucial role in the care of patients with diabetes through education, monitoring of their health condition, and support in self-management of the disease. She conducts regular home visits, advises patients on proper nutrition, physical activity, regular blood sugar monitoring, and correct use of therapy. Additionally, she has an important preventive function by detecting complications early and referring patients to appropriate healthcare institutions. With her presence and expertise, the community nurse contributes to improving the patients’ quality of life and reducing the risk of serious health consequences.