Despite the critical role of nursing in healthcare delivery, it often lacks recognition. International Nurses Day emphasizes the importance of nurses in the healthcare system, particularly with the 2024 theme “Our Nurses. Our Future,” highlighting the economic influence of care. Roche Diabetes Care [RDC] acknowledges nurses’ significant contributions, especially in Africa, where access to care is marked by socioeconomic disparities. To bridge these gaps, RDC introduced the “Nurses on Diabetes” [NOD] online course, enhancing healthcare education and providing a comprehensive approach to diabetes management. This course includes clinical and coaching elements to foster holistic patient care.
In Africa, where medical resources are scarce, nurses are pivotal in diabetes care. The NOD program by Roche aims to overcome educational barriers and strengthen healthcare’s front line. Beth Wangui Kairu, a Diabetes Nurse Educator at Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, notes that NOD has empowered nurses to impart essential knowledge and skills in diabetes management to patients. The nurses provide health talks and personalized guidance, enhancing patient care and glycemic control.
The NOD program, active in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and India, reflects Roche’s commitment to empowering nurses. Upskilling nurses addresses care barriers, connects with local communities, and offers broad health-economic benefits. Beth Wangui Kairu highlighted NOD’s role in boosting nurses’ confidence and effectiveness in managing diabetes, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Susan Snell, Area Head IMEA 3 at Roche Diabetes Care, emphasized the widespread benefits of nursing training for patients, the economy, and society. She stressed Roche’s dedication to enhancing care access through nurse education, which supports patient empowerment and diabetes management.
On International Nurses’ Day, Roche Diabetes Care encourages stakeholders, including governments and healthcare organizations, to invest in nurse education and support initiatives like NOD for better diabetes care across Africa.
