Community-based diabetes programme: the micro-clinic project

Increased urbanization in the Eastern Mediterranean Region has led to a significant risein the prevalence of diabetes. Caring for diabetes under conditions of endemic uncertainty, violenceand poverty is a great challenge. The micro-clinic model establishes a public domain of social andcommunity interaction whereby friends, families and neighbours can collectively engage in education,treatment and group support, obtain shared access to appropriate technology and spread positivebehaviours. Participants who are active in micro-clinics feel empowered to care for themselves andothers. The micro-clinic model offers the prospect of an economically, socially and politically sustainableapproach to health care.