A comparative descriptive analysis of 13 diabetes self-management education (DSME) guidelines from Spain's Ministry of Health and regional health authorities, evaluated against ADA and Global Diabetes Survey international standards across dimensions including program structure, content delivery, provider involvement, and quality management.
Significant variability was found across regional DSME guidelines; most emphasized individualized education and multidisciplinary care, but gaps were common in psychosocial support, dietary guidance, inclusion of vulnerable populations, and systematic quality evaluation frameworks.
Only 13 documents were reviewed, limiting generalizability; the analysis is document-based and does not assess real-world implementation or patient outcomes; no quantitative scoring of guideline adherence was reported.
Clinicians working across Spanish regions should be aware that DSME program content and quality vary widely — particularly around psychosocial support and dietary education. Advocacy for harmonized, inclusive guidelines with digital delivery options could help reduce care inequalities.
