Navigating Uncertainty: The Role of Providers as Advocates in the Face of School & Financial Stressors | Recording-Navigating Uncertainty: The Role of Providers as Advocates in the Face of School & Financial Stressors

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The ADA Diabetes and Youth Interest Group webinar featured Dr. Crystal Woodward and Lauren Figg, MSW, discussing advocacy and support for youth with diabetes in schools amid evolving healthcare challenges. Crystal Woodward, director of ADA’s Safe at School initiative, highlighted the importance of comprehensive diabetes care in schools—grounded in federal laws like the ADA and Section 504—to ensure students’ medical safety and equal access to school activities. She emphasized the role of school nurses as primary diabetes care providers, supported by trained non-clinical staff, and underscored the value of individualized written plans (DMMP and 504 plans) to prevent discrimination and clarify roles. Woodward encouraged healthcare providers to actively participate in advocacy, help coordinate training, and support families navigating school care, also noting ongoing ADA efforts like updated guidelines and nurse education.<br /><br />Lauren Figg, a social worker and researcher living with type 1 diabetes, addressed the broader social determinants affecting diabetes management, such as insulin affordability, food insecurity, and housing instability. She urged providers to routinely assess patients’ social needs with direct, empathetic communication; be aware of evolving local and national resources; assist patients with navigating support services; and prepare alternative care plans when necessary. Figg highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, providing accessible resource information, educating patients and colleagues, and leading with empathy amid complex systemic challenges. She also stressed the significance of legislative advocacy and community engagement to improve long-term outcomes.<br /><br />The presenters answered questions on anticipated insurance changes, school support for advanced diabetes technologies, and recommended proactive, creative problem solving by providers to support youth with diabetes navigating school and social challenges.

Keywords

ADA Diabetes and Youth Interest Group

Dr. Crystal Woodward

Lauren Figg MSW

diabetes care in schools

federal laws ADA Section 504

school nurses diabetes management

individualized diabetes management plans

social determinants of health diabetes

insulin affordability challenges

legislative advocacy diabetes