Table 1 The template of the Chinese diabetes group visit sessions

15 minutes

Introduction/Feedback

· All team members present introduce themselves and have each participant introduce himself/herself and share two or three problems caused by their diabetes.

· From the second session, participants will be asked to provide feedback on their action plans made the previous session. If there were problems, the group will be asked to brainstorm possible solutions.

35 minutes

Topic of group self-management education

· Group facilitators will use different adult teaching methods to cover one or two topics each session (Table 2).

15 minutes

Refreshment and group interaction

· Snacks and refreshments provided by volunteers.

· Ice-breaker games and energizer activities will be used to promote the group interaction.

10 minutes

Questions and Answers

· Participants ask any questions about their diseases, the visit, etc.

· All team members present will answer the questions related to their area of expertise.

15 minutes

Planning and Closing

· Facilitate each participant to make a weekly action plan for the coming month to achieve their self-management goal.

· Announce "homework", learning topic, time and date for next session.

60 minutes

One-on-one visits with health care providers

All team members present will meet patients individually as needed for:

· Measuring and documenting blood pressure, blood glucose and weight

· Behavioral counseling

· Refilling prescriptions

· Ordering referrals, laboratory tests, and treatments as indicated.